Original 1970 Superbird Car Price: Survivor Hits Auction Block
A remarkably rare 1970 Plymouth Superbird, cherished by the same family for nearly five decades, is poised to capture significant attention and a potentially hefty price tag at auction. This specific vehicle represents a unique opportunity for collectors, especially those tracking the fluctuating Superbird Car Price, as it boasts exceptional originality. Its emergence highlights the enduring appeal and increasing value of one of America’s most visually striking muscle cars.
The Legend of the Plymouth Superbird
Built for just one year, the Plymouth Superbird remains an icon of American automotive history. Its distinctive aerodynamic nose cone and towering rear wing weren’t just for show; they were engineered for dominance on the high banks of NASCAR tracks, famously piloted by racing legends like Richard “The King” Petty.
Richard Petty driving the number 43 Plymouth Superbird race car in 1970
The car proved so effective that NASCAR implemented rule changes specifically to neutralize its competitive edge, rendering its radical design obsolete for racing almost as quickly as it appeared. Consequently, fewer than 2,000 road-going Superbirds were ever produced. Many faced neglect or the scrapyard in the years that followed their brief production run. However, interest has surged in recent decades, making the estimated 1,000 surviving examples highly coveted collector’s items.
Rear view of the 1970 Plymouth Superbird emphasizing its tall signature wing
This Survivor Superbird: A Closer Look
The Superbird currently heading to auction is finished in vibrant “Vitamin C Orange” and presents in largely original, unrestored condition – a true “survivor.” It features the potent 440 cubic-inch “Six Barrel” V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission.
The 440 cubic-inch Six Barrel V8 engine inside the 1970 Plymouth Superbird
Showing 57,178 miles on the odometer, the car retains characteristics lost in restored examples, including original chalk marks from the assembly line. While it bears minor imperfections like scrapes, dents, and faded paint on the fender vents – attributed by the current owner to drivers not being accustomed to the car’s long nose – its originality is exceptional.
Front view of the Vitamin C Orange 1970 Plymouth Superbird showing its aerodynamic nose cone
Interior view of the 1970 Plymouth Superbird showcasing the original dashboard and seats
Ownership and Auction Details
This particular Superbird remained with its original Kansas City family from 1970 until 2018. It was then acquired by Jay Soneff of Soneff’s Master Garage, a classic car specialist in Denver. Soneff recognized its unique status immediately. “It’s 1,000% original, possibly the most original Superbird left in the world,” he stated. Despite operating a restoration shop, Soneff preserved the car’s survivor condition. Now trimming his collection, he is offering it via VanDerBrink Auctions in an online sale ending June 10th.
Close-up of the Plymouth Road Runner Superbird decal on the rear wing
Understanding the Superbird Car Price
Determining the final Superbird Car Price for this example presents a unique challenge. While top-tier restored Superbirds equipped with the ultra-rare 426 Hemi V8 engine can command astronomical figures – one sold for a record $1.65 million in 2022 – values for the more common 440 V8 models vary. Fully restored 440 Superbirds often achieve prices around $500,000. However, the exceptional originality of this “survivor” car places it in a special category. Its value will ultimately be decided by bidders who appreciate its preserved state over a flawless restoration. Early bidding had already surpassed $110,000, indicating strong interest. This is a significant appreciation from its original sticker price of roughly $5,000 back in 1970.
Profile shot of the orange 1970 Plymouth Superbird survivor car up for auction
Conclusion
The upcoming auction of this time-capsule 1970 Plymouth Superbird offers a rare glimpse into automotive history. As a highly original survivor with documented single-family ownership for decades, it represents a unique proposition in the classic car market. While its final sale price remains to be seen, the significant interest underscores the enduring legacy and high collector demand for the Superbird, making its auction a key event for anyone tracking muscle car values and the specific superbird car price trends.
