Fiat 2300 S and Plymouth Barracuda share revolutionary 1960s design

The Fiat 2300 S Coupé and the Plymouth Barracuda, despite their different origins as an Italian grand tourer and an American sports car, share a revolutionary design element: the large panoramic rear window. This stylistic choice anticipated the success of fastback body styles and was rooted in the close relationship between the Italian design house Ghia and the Chrysler Group.

Historical connections between the two brands were facilitated by Ghia's work for Chrysler designer Virgil Exner, including exclusive models and luxury limousines. The common ancestor for both vehicles is identified as the 1960 Dual Ghia L6.4, designed by Eugene Casaroll, which featured a three-part panoramic window. This design solved visibility and lighting issues common in European coupes of the era. It is noted that while the Barracuda arrived later, its design likely drew influence from Ghia's existing work rather than being a direct plagiarism.