The start of the Seventies saw newer innovation and intervention in the design and structure of the Baracuda. It was branded as the “Cuda” and the new design was strikingly different from the preceding models with sleeker and sportier features. It was Hemi-powered and was sold without warranty.

The 440-6 and 426 Hemi made the performance of the Barracudas highly proficient. The engine was easy to modify to a degree and in either way; original or modified, one could in effect have a five sit race car. In the year 1971, more alteration took place with a different frame and taillights. This Hemi-powered design is considered to be legendary version and is much sought after by automobile collectors of today.

More redesign took place in the subsequent year, with twin headlight and globular taillights. This redesign remained unchanged for the next three years. However, the tougher emission laws introduced in that period meant that there was a significant dent in the power of this machine.

Added to this was the introduction of new safety policies by the government which demanded larger front as well as rear bumper guard. Regrettably, all these and the oil crisis that had engulfed the economy in that period forced the halting of production of the celebrated Barracuda.

Though famous in the collector’s circuit and much sought after by them because of rarity of certain models, it can be safely said that the third generation models were a great marketing blunder and could never match rivals like Ford and GM.