Rare 1970 Plymouth Superbird – 5,447 Miles for Sale
A Rare Bird from the 1970s
Imagine living in the late 1960s to early 1970s, when muscle cars were all about power and performance. The era was dominated by vehicles that were more square than sleek, such as the 1968 Dodge Charger. While it was undeniably a powerful car, it lacked the aerodynamic flair that would soon become a hallmark of high-performance models. Enter the Plymouth Superbird, a one-year-only creation that redefined what a muscle car could be.
The Superbird was Plymouth's answer to the growing demand for high-speed racing machines. It stood out among its competitors like the Dodge Charger Daytona, Ford Torino Talladega, and Mercury Cyclone with its distinctive design. The most notable features included a sloped, aerodynamic nose cone and a massive rear wing that resembled a park bench. These elements not only made the car visually striking but also improved its performance on the track.
Under the hood, the Superbird offered two engine options: a 426 cubic inch (7.0 L) Hemi V8 or the "V-Code" 440 cubic inch (7.2 L) Super Commando V8. The latter came with either a four-barrel or six-barrel carburetor, giving drivers a choice between power and efficiency. Despite its impressive specifications, the Superbird was not a commercial success. Only around 1,935 units were produced for the U.S. market, with production split between 135 Hemi V8 models and 716 440 cu in six-barrel versions. The rest were equipped with the 440 cu in four-barrel engine.
This Superbird Could Be Yours
One particular example of the Superbird is currently up for sale, and it’s a standout model. This specific car is one of the 716 Superbirds equipped with the 440 cu in engine and a six-barrel carburetor. What makes this vehicle even more special is that it’s an unrestored, numbers-matching car with just 5,447 miles on the odometer. It is also reportedly the 200th Superbird completed and the 100th one to be equipped with the V-Code 440 cu in V8.
Everything about this car is original, from the interior to the decals and factory wheels. It comes with extensive documentation, including its original window sticker, factory invoice, shipping notice, warranty punch card, MSO, and two broadcast sheets. Additionally, the car has earned recognition, winning a FIVA/HVA Preservation Award at the Meadowbrook Concours of America in Rochester, Michigan.
The history of this Superbird is equally compelling. It has had a storied ownership since new, making it a true piece of automotive history. The 440 cu in V8 still retains its factory exhaust, hoses, and belts, which is rare for a car of this age. However, some enthusiasts might be put off by the fact that it comes with a 3-speed Torqueflite 727 automatic transmission instead of a 4-speed manual. Fortunately, it does have the A36 Performance Axle package with 3.55 gears, which helps maintain its performance credentials.
Final Thoughts
Rare and sought-after cars often come with price tags that are out of reach for most people. The 1970 Plymouth Superbird is no exception. The seller is asking $574,999 for this particular model, which is definitely not a cheap purchase. However, it’s worth considering that this exact car failed to sell at Mecum's 2024 Kissimmee auction for $375,000. According to Hagerty's valuation tool, a Concours-condition 1970 Superbird with this engine and transmission configuration is valued at approximately $403,000.
Regardless of its value, there's no denying that this is a truly remarkable car. Its unique design, historical significance, and pristine condition make it a highly desirable collector's item. For the right buyer, owning this Superbird would be a dream come true, and the future owner would be incredibly lucky to have such a rare and iconic vehicle in their garage.