Mopar enthusiasts, here’s your chance to own a truly unique piece of automotive history. eBay Motors has partnered with the McLaren Formula 1 team to auction a custom-built 1973 Plymouth Barracuda resto-mod. Designed to showcase the potential of eBay’s platform for sourcing parts, this American muscle car blends vintage charm with modern performance and F1 flair.
The car, wrapped in McLaren’s iconic “papaya orange” and signed by F1 star Lando Norris, debuted at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. Now, it’s available for bidding, with proceeds going to the Society of Women Engineers, honoring lead builder Alex Taylor, a prominent advocate for women in motorsports.
A Classic Car with Modern Upgrades –
Originally finished in silver with black AAR-style stripes, the Barracuda was already heavily restored before eBay Motors acquired it. However, the team, led by Taylor, took it a step further by adding tasteful upgrades to enhance performance and aesthetics.
Key updates include:
- Suspension: QA1 front and rear coilover conversion systems for better handling.
- Brakes: Wilwood Forged Dynalite Pro Series disc brakes on all corners.
- Exhaust: Doug’s Headers ceramic-coated full-length headers paired with a Pypes Valance Exit 2½-inch exhaust system.
- Wheels and Tires: American Racing Torq Thrust D wheels wrapped in Cooper Cobra radial T/A GT tires for period-correct styling.
- Interior: Upgraded with bucket seats, a wood steering wheel, and improved lighting all around.
Under the hood, the Barracuda features its factory 5.6-liter (340 cubic-inch) 4-BBL (four-barrel) V8 engine paired with a Torqueflite automatic transmission. This powertrain, originally rated at 240 horsepower, now breathes better thanks to the performance headers and exhaust.
A Dash of F1 Magic –
To tie the car into McLaren’s racing heritage, the Barracuda received a bold wrap in McLaren’s signature orange. The dashboard bears the autograph of Lando Norris, who drove the car upon arriving at the Circuit of the Americas. This unique collaboration merges the world of American muscle with cutting-edge F1 excitement.
Auction Details –
The no-reserve auction is live now and runs until November 24 at 7:00 p.m. CST. The winning bidder will not only receive this one-of-a-kind Barracuda but also its original parts, including wheels, seats, and the steering wheel.
Supporting a Worthy Cause –
Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Society of Women Engineers, supporting the next generation of innovators. This initiative highlights Alex Taylor’s contributions as a skilled builder and advocate for women in the automotive field.
Whether you’re an F1 fan, a muscle car aficionado, or a collector of rare vehicles, this Barracuda offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history that blends classic American muscle with modern technology and racing heritage.