The Lemon Twist Legend: Why This 1970 Plymouth Superbird Auctioned for a Whopping $266,000 Will Make Your Jaw Drop
The Plymouth Superbird stands as a pillar of automotive excellence, renowned for its exceptional rarity and coveted status among collectors. To gearheads in the know, this muscle car needs no introduction. Limited to just 1,920 units officially produced, the Superbird’s value has only climbed over the years, making it a prized possession for those lucky enough to own one. When a Lemon Twist Yellow 1970 Superbird surfaced at auction recently, it fetched a breathtaking $266,000, proving yet again why this iconic muscle car remains in a league of its own.
What makes the Superbird so special? It’s built on the foundation of the almost equally legendary Plymouth Road Runner, but with just enough refined touches to elevate it to mythical status. This particular model up for auction was a numbers-matching gem, featuring hallmark characteristics such as flip-up headlights, fender vents, hood pins, black graphics, an impressive rear wing, and 15” Rallye wheels adorned with Goodyear Eagle GTII white-letter tires.
Not all Superbirds were created equal. While over 1,000 are believed to have survived the test of time, the ones equipped with the 426 Hemi V8 hold a special place in collectors' hearts. These specific models are exceedingly rare with only 135 ever fitted with the Hemi engine, pushing their worth even higher—sometimes north of half a million dollars. This Lemon Twist beauty features the 440 ci Super Commando V8 engine, complete with a four-barrel carburetor, dual-snorkel air-cleaner assembly, and an orange engine block. Rated at a factory 375 horsepower, it sends all its grunt to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. According to the seller, every bit of this car is numbers-matching, making it a bona fide collector's dream.
The racing heritage of the Superbird adds another layer to its allure. Richard Petty, a legend in the world of NASCAR, piloted the Superbird to victory in eight races during the 1970 season, securing the car’s status as a track titan. Unfortunately, changing regulations led to the discontinuation of the Superbird, as well as its Dodge sibling, the Charger Daytona, in the 1971 season. Even so, their performances on the track have left an indelible mark on racing history, contributing to their current desirability.
Performance and Interior Highlights
Beyond its formidable engine, this Superbird boasts a black vinyl interior with luxuriously detailed high-back bucket seats trimmed in white piping. The Hurst pistol-grip shifter and original three-spoke steering wheel add to the authenticity and period-correct appeal of this car. These interior details encapsulate the blend of style and performance that defines the Superbird.
The rising value of Superbirds isn’t merely due to their scorching performance and drool-worthy looks. Inflation and a burgeoning interest in classic American muscle cars have also played their parts. Just a few months ago, another Superbird, painted in an alluring shade of blue, commanded a staggering $525,000 at auction. This trend speaks volumes about the enduring appeal of these rare automotive artifacts.
In conclusion, the sale of this Lemon Twist Yellow 1970 Plymouth Superbird for $266,000 is a testament to the car’s continual rise in both popularity and value. Its limited production numbers, combined with iconic design elements and a storied racing past, make it one of the most desirable classic American muscle cars on the market. For the lucky new owner, this Superbird is more than just a car—it’s a piece of automotive history, a rolling testament to a bygone era of horsepower and performance.