This is one of the most graceful body designs to come from Chrysler as the second generation of Barracuda which, in 1967, was finally separated from its Valiant "A" body heritage. It was finally morphing into a real pony car and its shape was now much more refined. The fastback roof now ended in a boattail bulge on the deck. The front end and bay were now capable of accepting any engine in the Plymouth line including the big block 383 and the 426 Hemi. This particular release represents my favorite option for the street, the 275 hp Commando 340 with the Formula "S" package. This option was first introduced on the 1965 model and externally was marked by the "S" badging and a single chromed external resonator that made my head turn when I heard it on the street. This bad boy has full dual exhausts with twin resonators, chromed hood power bulges marked "340-S" as well as the fender badges. Black side stripes and E70-14 Red Streak wide tires complete the trim package.

This little beauty by Highway-61 is shot in Turbine Bronze and captures the look and stance quite nicely even with operating suspension. H-61 did not forget that 1968 models were now required to have side warning lights and a dash mounted VIN# plate. The Turbine Bronze looks geat and the finish is virtually flawless. H-61 has also replicated the factory overspray onto the undercarriage. As you look at the undercarriage photo below, you see the usual attention to detail including brake and fuel lines, the use of paint and textures to simulate the different metals and finishes. You'll also notice a lack of screw mounting pylons. H-61 has employed new "screwless" packaging on these Barracudas. They are affixed within their standard window/display box with a clear thermoformed plastic insert. This is good news for those who have long objected to the obtrusive mounts on the undercarriage, but this paricular format seems to be prone to rubbing marks on the prominences. Long term storage may also increase the incidence of interaction. My example had a rub off of the tampo'd side stripe.

Note the beautiful photoetched script and badging the model has. This really adds so much realism to the exterior. The hood has a PE Barracuda emblem. The rear light panel has the 3-D script and emblem too. Note the twin external resonators. My example had one that was broken and poorly glued back into place. In the picture below, I had already remounted it in its proper alignment. The front grill and chrome are very well executed and the use of period S.C. plates are a nice touch. While here, pop the hood which operates on the same type arc hinges that were employed on the 1:1. The engine bay is really well done. The Commando 340 is there in all its plumbed and wired glory. The air cleaner graphics and the manufacturer's stickers are represented, but the battery is a generic 12V. H-61 has even modeled in the weld welting on the inner fender panels. The shutlines are tight all around so that if you can't shake them open, you'll need the special tool provided. Check the little package that contains that special tool and polishing cloth. In there is also the carpeted cover for the trunk that hides the spare.

The interior is absolutely top notch. The doors open easily on invisible hinges, even the interior door locks are modeled. All the hardware and trim is chromed. The seats are soft and articulated, including the rear bench that folds down to make a carpeted bed. All the front and rear seat belts are modeled with PE hardware, as are the roof-mounted shoulder restraints. The floor is carpeted with the floor mats molded in. The dash has pretty 3-D gauges, and the dash insert is chromed and blackwashed. The glove compartment is functional. The center console houses a 4spd shifter. The faux wood-trimmed sport steering wheel is perfectly done with horn center logo, scaled directional lever and chromed spokes. The roof liner is acoustically textured and sports sun visors and an accurate rear view mirror are present.

All in all, I really like what H-61 has done with this great sixties classic, and I highly recommend it to all you Mopar fans out there.