4 Minutes
The Rare Allure of the Plymouth Superbird
There's something truly special about the 1970 Plymouth Superbird—a legendary icon of American muscle cars, famous for its aerodynamic nose, towering rear wing, and roots in NASCAR racing history. Spotting a real Superbird on the road today is an extraordinary event, as original NASCAR-spec examples are both rare and incredibly valuable. For most enthusiasts, owning a genuine Superbird is a dream that feels out of reach.
Turning a Vision Into Reality: The Superbird Clone Project
Instead of waiting for the impossible, one passionate owner set about turning his ambition into reality. Starting with a 1970 Plymouth Sport Satellite as the donor vehicle, he undertook a comprehensive transformation to replicate the iconic look and feel of the Superbird. Every aspect of this car has been meticulously crafted, with particular attention paid to performance and authenticity.
Muscle Under the Hood: Performance Upgrades
The heart of this Superbird tribute is a heavily modified powerplant. The standard 440 cubic inch V8 has been bored and stroked to a massive 500 cubic inches, enhanced further with dual four-barrel carburetors. This beast of an engine was built by renowned expert Ralph Solhem of RSR Enterprises, with over $24,000 invested in the motor alone. The result? An astonishing 650 horsepower, delivering performance that rivals or exceeds many modern muscle cars.
To ensure the car could handle this immense power, the chassis was heavily reinforced. Further enhancements include an electric Edelbrock fuel pump, MSD ignition system, and upgraded shock absorbers, all contributing to a reliable and thrilling driving experience.
Striking Design: Authentic Superbird Aesthetics
Capturing the Superbird’s unmistakable appearance was a top priority. The builder installed a specialized Superbird body kit, complete with the signature aerodynamic front nose and tall rear wing. This painstaking attention to detail means the clone looks nearly identical to the original—even seasoned enthusiasts might not spot the difference at first glance.
Custom Interior: Modern Comfort Meets Classic Style
Inside, the transformation continues. The cockpit features a custom center console, AutoMeter performance gauges, a Momo steering wheel, and a modern push-start ignition system. These upgrades ensure the interior matches the sporty, race-inspired feel of the exterior, while providing modern conveniences and driver engagement.
Market Position and Auction Insights
Currently, this remarkable Plymouth Superbird clone is available for sale online, drawing increasing attention from collectors and muscle car fans. As of now, the auction has seen strong interest, but the reserve price has yet to be met—hardly surprising, given the significant investment and quality upgrades. With over 70 enthusiasts watching the auction and the top bid at $11,181, the seller's expectations are understandably higher, especially considering the $24,000 spent on the engine alone.
Why This Superbird Clone Stands Out
While it may not be an original, this Superbird clone offers an enticing combination of rarity, power, and detailed craftsmanship. Compared to other muscle cars and tribute builds, this example stands out for its authenticity, performance credentials, and the level of professional expertise involved in its creation.
Final Thoughts and Buying Recommendations
The car currently resides in Bayside, New York, awaiting a discerning new owner who appreciates both the history and the power of the Superbird legend. Anyone considering this purchase should arrange an in-person inspection to experience the full extent of this project’s transformation, especially the adrenaline-spiking performance tucked under the hood. Given the high standard of work and significant investment, this Plymouth Superbird tribute is set to make waves in the custom muscle car market—don't miss your chance to see it up close.
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