1776Reporting
In a remarkable find for classic car enthusiasts, a pristine Plymouth Superbird has resurfaced after spending over four decades tucked away in a warehouse. Despite its age, the car remains astonishingly rust-free, a rare condition for such an iconic piece of automotive history.
A Legend in Hibernation
The Plymouth Superbird, renowned for its dominance in NASCAR during the early 1970s, has long held legendary status among gearheads. This particular model has been sitting idle since the late 1970s or early 1980s, its glory days of high-speed racing long behind it.
Released in 1970, the Superbird was a product of Plymouth’s determination to meet NASCAR’s strict homologation rules. The company had to produce one street-legal version of the car for every two dealerships across the United States. In total, Plymouth manufactured 1,935 Superbirds, slightly exceeding their required number.
What makes this Superbird even more extraordinary is its rarity. Of the entire production run, only 135 units were equipped with the powerful 7.0-liter V8 engine. Among these, just 77 featured a three-speed automatic transmission. Even fewer—about 15%—were finished in the iconic B5 Blue, the shade of this recently rediscovered example.
The Price of Neglect
While pristine examples of the Superbird can fetch up to $1 million at auction, this car’s value is likely diminished due to its condition. According to Auto Evolution, the vehicle has passed through several owners over the years but has remained untouched and stationary for an estimated 40 to 45 years.
Though it retains its rust-free body, time has taken its toll. The car’s original vinyl top is missing, the interior has been gutted, and its powerful engine is nowhere to be found. However, its current owner appears undeterred, expressing a strong desire to restore the car to its former glory.
A Record-Breaking Racer
The Plymouth Superbird was built for speed. In its prime, it achieved an incredible 200 mph at Talladega in March 1970—a NASCAR record at the time. Even by today’s standards, its performance remains impressive, with the car capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds.
To younger generations, the Superbird is best known as the inspiration for Strip “The King” Weathers, a beloved character in Pixar’s Cars franchise. The animated portrayal of the iconic racer helped introduce its legacy to a new audience.
Classic Car Resurgence
This discovery comes amid growing interest in forgotten classics. Recently, a 1969 AMC Rambler, coated in layers of dust and grime, surfaced for sale at an unexpectedly low price. Meanwhile, YouTuber Samcrac captured attention by reviving a broken Porsche Cayenne S he purchased for just $700. After a simple repair, the car roared back to life.
Samcrac remarked in his video: “We’ll hit the bid on it, we’re gonna win it. It’s been running for days. Nobody wants it. And it’s local.”
A Second Chance for a Classic
For the Plymouth Superbird, the journey is far from over. With its iconic design and storied past, this rare gem still has the potential to shine once more. Whether it reclaims the racetrack or becomes a centerpiece in a collector’s garage, this rediscovered treasure is a reminder of the enduring allure of classic cars.
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