An iconic piece of NASCAR and muscle car history is set to cross the auction block at Mecum Kissimmee on Saturday, January 18th, 2025. This stunning 1970 Plymouth Superbird, finished in Alpine White with a Black vinyl roof, carries an extraordinary provenance: it was once owned by none other than NASCAR legend Richard Petty, the 7-time NASCAR Cup Champion and 200-race winner, from 1982 to 2013. This Superbird is more than just a collector’s dream—it’s a slice of American automotive lore.
During its time under Petty’s ownership, the car was a regular fixture at the Petty Museum, drawing enthusiasts eager to catch a glimpse of this racing-inspired machine. In 2014, following Petty’s nearly three-decade stewardship, a meticulous restoration was undertaken by Petty’s Garage. This restoration preserved much of the car’s originality, leaving the interior largely as it was, with the notable addition of Petty’s signature profile embroidered into the seats.
Adding to the car’s storied history, the trunk is signed by Richard Petty himself, with the signature protected under the clear coat. The auction also includes a signed letter from Petty, his signature is also on the air cleaner, affirming this is the only Superbird he has ever owned, making it a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle.
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird: An Engineering Marvel –
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird was a short-lived but unforgettable phenomenon in the muscle car world. Created as a follow-up to the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, it was designed for NASCAR supremacy. To meet homologation rules, Plymouth produced 1,935 units of this aerodynamic marvel. The car’s dramatic aero features, including the elongated nose cone and towering rear wing, set it apart from anything else on the road and helped it achieve incredible performance on the track. These enhancements made it a formidable competitor against rivals like the Ford Torino Talladega and Mercury Cyclone.
Original Driveline and Super Commando Power –
Under the hood of this particular Superbird lies the original (E86) 7.2-liter (440 cubic-inch) Super Commando V8 engine, equipped with a 4-BBL carburetor. This 440 Super Commando 4-BBL engine delivered 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm. Known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, the 4-BBL setup featured a single four-barrel Carter AVS carburetor, which made it an excellent choice for street use. The engine’s straightforward design and impressive torque ensured strong acceleration and a consistent, enjoyable driving experience.
A Storied History and Collector’s Dream –
This Alpine White Superbird stands out not only for its unique history but also for its impressive list of features. It comes equipped with an automatic transmission, a Black bucket seat interior with a center console, and period-correct Rallye wheels fitted with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires. Details like hood pins, dual exhaust, and pop-up headlights complete the authentic muscle car look.
The Superbird has made several notable television appearances over the years, featured on MTV Cribs, My Classic Car, Stacey David’s Gearz, MotorWeek, and even CMT. Its fame, combined with its Petty connection, makes it an extraordinary piece for any serious collector.
Richard Petty’s Superbird perfectly represents the muscle car era’s innovative spirit, blending groundbreaking aerodynamics with unmatched power. The upcoming Mecum auction offers a rare opportunity to own a vehicle that not only turned heads on the street but also changed the course of NASCAR history. Don’t miss the chance to see this piece of automotive heritage up for grabs on January 18th, 2025.
