The Plymouth Barracuda hit the market 16 days earlier than the Ford Mustang, but we name this class of auto “pony automobile.” A really good, typical specimen of the second-generation Barracuda, a 1969 fastback, is our Decide of the Day. It’s on the market on ClassicCars.com by a seller in Winter Backyard, Florida. (Click on the hyperlink to view the itemizing)

Early Mustangs are also known as “schoolteacher’s vehicles,” which is partially true and partially derisive. The Mustang was a advertising tour de pressure that hit a number of market-research targets with distinct precision. Right here was a automobile that might be all issues to all folks, from a sporty second automobile to a high-revving sports activities automobile to, sure, a pleasant automobile for the rising female mystique. The 1964 Barracuda, alternatively, was merely a fastback Valiant, which is why it didn’t seize the creativeness of Child Boomers (if not Mr. and Mrs. Respectable). The Barracuda’s 1967 redesign was first step at matching the Mustang’s prowess, because the Barracuda was now out there as a coupe and convertible along with the unique fastback. Chrysler’s well-known Slant Six was for the economy-minded, whereas the 273 small-block was the entry-level V8, to be outdated by the brand new 318 when it debuted in 1968. Efficiency choices included the 340, 383, and 440 by 1969.

Not like the Mustang, the preferred physique model for the Barracuda was the fastback. Nonetheless, by 1969, the Barracuda’s gross sales had taken a number of hits from a crowded pony automobile market that included entries from American Motors, Mercury, Pontiac, and Chevrolet. Would you consider solely 17,788 Barracuda fastbacks have been in-built 1969? That pales compared to Mustang manufacturing. Most Barracuda fastbacks have been V8s, however 1,830 U.S.-spec featured the 225ci “Leaning Tower of Energy” and, of these, 315 had the usual three-speed guide like this 1969 Barracuda fastback.

It’s painted “T3” Honey Bronze metallic and is trimmed inside with the deluxe “D6T” Saddle Tan bucket seat inside (that was a part of the “A86” Inside Decor Group). Different born-with choices embody “M31” Physique Aspect Belt moldings, “R11” Strong State AM radio, and “V78” deleted painted longitudinal pinstripe.

The vendor claims this 1969 Plymouth Barracuda fastback has had the identical proprietor since 1980 and options one repaint. “Runs ok to be a each day driver.” And that’s what’s so enticing about this automobile: it’s a alternative pony automobile that’s straightforward on fuel and may be loved going backwards and forwards to high school Monday by Friday. In reality, your pupils shall be impressed with you and the automobile and — better of all — at $24,969, it’s reasonably priced on a instructor’s wage.

To view this itemizing on ClassicCars.com, see Decide of the Day.