eBay Motors, in collaboration with McLaren Racing, unveiled a meticulously restored and modified 1973 Plymouth Barracuda at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, last month. It appeared at the time of the unveiling that the car was a gift for Formula 1 Driver Lando Norris. However, this one-of-a-kind restomod is up for auction on eBay Motors, with all proceeds benefiting the Society of Women Engineers, underscoring a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the engineering field.
When eBay Motors acquired the Barracuda, it had undergone significant restoration and was already in great condition. However, to elevate it to a new echelon of performance and style, eBay Motors enlisted the expertise of Alex Taylor, a renowned automotive builder and Hot Rod Magazine show host. Taylor spearheaded a series of upgrades, focusing on enhancing the vehicle's handling, braking, and overall driving experience.
Key modifications include the installation of QA1 Mopar front and rear street performance coilover conversion systems, which significantly improve the car's suspension dynamics. Wilwood Forged Dynalite Pro Series front and rear brake kits were added to provide superior stopping power, ensuring the vehicle's performance matches its aggressive appearance. The exhaust system received a substantial upgrade with Doug’s Headers ceramic-coated full-length headers and a Pypes Valance Exit 2½” crossmember back exhaust system, delivering both improved performance and a resonant exhaust note.
The interior was not overlooked in this transformation. The addition of a wood steering wheel and race-inspired bucket seats enhances both the aesthetic appeal and driver engagement, creating an environment that pays homage to the car's heritage while offering modern comfort and support.
To further distinguish this Barracuda, McLaren Racing contributed its iconic "papaya" orange wrap, a color synonymous with the team's storied history in Formula 1. This vibrant hue not only pays tribute to McLaren's racing pedigree but also ensures the Barracuda stands out as a unique fusion of American muscle and British racing heritage. Adding to its exclusivity, McLaren's star driver, Lando Norris, personally signed the vehicle, making it truly one of a kind.
The eBay Motors and McLaren Racing 1973 Plymouth Barracuda restomod is up for auction for just 7 days so if you wanted a unique peice of automotive history, you better jump on it, as of the time of this post the bidding is just at $9,000, so you could get a decent deal too!
See the auction listing HERE.