Rare 1968 Plymouth Hemi Barracuda Sells for $258,500, Highlighting legacy of Drag Racing Dominance
A meticulously preserved 1968 Plymouth Barracuda equipped with the legendary 426 Hemi engine-and boasting a direct link to drag racing royalty Sox & Martin-recently sold for $258,500, underscoring the enduring value and historical importance of this limited-production muscle car.The sale spotlights a golden era of American motorsport and the ongoing demand for authentic, high-performance vehicles.
the 1967-69 Hemi Barracuda represents a pivotal moment in automotive history, born from a desire to conquer drag strips. Plymouth’s response to Chevrolet’s 427 engine in NASCAR led to the development of the 426 Hemi, initially intended for racing. To homologate the engine for NHRA Super stock class, Plymouth produced a limited run of Barracudas specifically equipped with the Hemi, creating one of the most coveted muscle cars of all time. Today, these vehicles are prized by collectors and enthusiasts for their rarity, performance, and racing pedigree.
The first Hemi Barracuda was delivered to Sox & Martin, the premier Plymouth racing team comprised of driver Ronnie Sox, business strategist Buddy Martin, and engine builder Jake King. Their combined expertise quickly established the Hemi Barracuda as a force to be reckoned with. In 1968, Sox was named AHRA Driver of the Year, and in 1969, the team secured victories in seven of the nine major events they entered, claiming titles from the NHRA, IHRA (International Hot Rod Association), and AHRA.
Due to their scarcity-and escalating value-many hemi Barracudas currently competing in drag racing are recreations built on standard Barracuda bodies, according to research from Dodge Garage. The originals are considered too valuable to risk damage on the track. Current market values, as tracked by classic.com, are difficult to pinpoint due to limited sales, but the $258,500 achieved by the Sox & Martin car in 2023 represents a high benchmark for this iconic vehicle.
