Richard Petty, one of the most celebrated drivers in NASCAR history, is synonymous with speed, excellence, and racing domination. With seven NASCAR championships and seven Daytona 500 wins under his belt, Petty’s impact on the world of motorsport is undeniable. This February, his iconic 1970 Plymouth Superbird is set to go under the hammer, expected to fetch a price between $900,000 and $1,000,000. Here’s a closer look at this legendary muscle car, which has a unique connection to the NASCAR icon.
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird of Richard Petty: A Racing Icon’s Ride
Richard Petty’s ownership of the 1970 Plymouth Superbird adds an irreplaceable layer of history to this already remarkable car. The Superbird was in Petty’s possession from 1982 to 2013, making it the only street-legal Superbird in his entire collection. This particular Superbird is not just a car; it is a piece of racing legacy, further immortalized by its famous owner. Having traveled a modest 28,394 miles (45,695 km), the car comes with several letters and photos from Petty, offering a personal connection to the legendary driver.
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Watch this video to see Richard Petty’s 200mph Plymouth Superbird in action on the road!
Restoration and Refurbishment at Petty’s Garage
In 2013, Richard Petty parted ways with the car, and in 2014, it underwent a major restoration at Petty’s Garage in North Carolina. The process was extensive, costing $26,900, and involved disassembling the car down to its core. Both the engine and transmission were removed, and the vehicle was entirely stripped of its parts. Afterward, it was repainted in a pristine white hue, which gleams under any light. A new vinyl top was installed, and all the exterior chrome components were polished to perfection. Petty himself signed the trunk, making this car even more special for future owners and collectors.
Technical Specifications: Power and Performance
When it comes to performance, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird is a beast of a machine. Under the hood, it retains the original 440 cubic-inch Super Commando V8 engine that generated 390 horsepower when the car was first released. The engine is paired with an A727 automatic transmission and an 8.75-inch rear axle, delivering the kind of raw power that defined muscle cars of the era. Despite its age, the car still has the ability to turn heads with its performance on the road or at a show.
Preserved Interior and Personal Touches
The interior of the Superbird is as impressive as its performance. Remarkably well-preserved, it showcases a customized black leather interior with white embroidered stitching, featuring an image of Richard Petty on the headrests. A personal touch from Petty himself, his signature adorns the dashboard, along with a heartfelt message that reads: “take care of my car!” These unique details offer a glimpse into Petty’s personality, making this car not just a machine, but a piece of his history.
A Rare Collector’s Item
Plymouth only produced 1,935 Superbirds during its single model year, making it a rare find in the automotive world. While this particular car may not have the lowest mileage among existing Superbirds, its connection to Richard Petty and its exceptional condition make it one of the most coveted models on the market. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this Plymouth Superbird is more than just a car; it’s a piece of racing history.
Appearances in Popular Culture
The Richard Petty Plymouth Superbird has made several appearances in television shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture. It has been featured on MTV’s Cribs, My Classic Car, and Stacey David’s Gearz, bringing the legendary muscle car into the living rooms of fans and car enthusiasts around the world. These media appearances not only showcase the car’s unique design but also add to its cultural significance.
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Watch this video to learn everything you need to know about the Superbird and Daytona, featured on Up to Speed!
Conclusion: A Legendary Piece of Racing History
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird once owned by Richard Petty is not just a car; it is a symbol of automotive history, racing culture, and a true collector’s dream. With its limited production, iconic design, and legendary ownership, this Superbird is expected to fetch a high price at auction. It’s a car that embodies the legacy of one of NASCAR’s greatest drivers, and for the lucky buyer, it will be much more than just a vehicle – it will be a prized possession with a fascinating history and a direct connection to the world of motorsports.
