Built in 1970, the Plymouth Superbird is a classic automobile, produced in approximately 2,000 units. While not as rare as its predecessor, the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, a significant number of Superbirds have gone missing over the years.
 The Rarity of the Superbird
Several Superbirds faced destruction on race tracks or were relegated to scrapyards, leaving only a fraction of the original production still intact. Some of these vehicles, including the one featured below, have been hidden away for several decades, untouched by the public eye.
Discovered by “Auto Archaeology” on YouTube, this Alpine White Superbird tells a poignant tale. Acquired by the current owner’s father in the late 1970s or early 1980s, the car was stowed away for restoration. Unfortunately, the restoration was never completed, and after 40 years, the Superbird remains partially disassembled.
The Current Condition
Despite its long hibernation, the Superbird is in surprisingly good shape. The chassis and shell exhibit minimal rust, and most of the components removed during the initial restoration attempt are still in possession. Notably, sought-after parts like the nose cone and massive wing remain intact.
Although the car has languished for over four decades, the owner has ambitious plans to fulfill his father’s dream. The goal is to restore this “winged warrior” to its factory specifications, making it a solid and highly original restoration project.
# FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
## FAQ1: How rare is this particular Superbird?
This Superbird is equipped with the four-barrel 440 engine and a four-speed manual gearbox, making it one of only 458 vehicles with this specific configuration out of the 1,084 four-barrel 440 Superbirds produced. When factoring in the Alpine White paint, the rarity increases, with an estimated 78 Superbirds sharing this unique combination.
## FAQ2: What is the overall production rarity of the Superbird?
Plymouth shipped approximately 1,935 Superbirds to US dealerships, with 1,084 featuring the four-barrel 440 engine. Among these, only 458 had the four-speed manual gearbox. The rarity further decreases when considering the color, with around 17% of Superbirds leaving the factory in Alpine White, totaling approximately 329 cars.
## FAQ3: Why is this Superbird considered a rare gem?
The rarity of this Superbird lies in its combination of features: four-barrel 440 engine, four-speed manual gearbox, and Alpine White paint. Though precise numbers aren’t available, estimates suggest that only around 78 Superbirds share this specific configuration, adding to its appeal as a rare and valuable find.
## FAQ4: What is the estimated value of a restored Superbird?
Once fully restored, this Superbird is anticipated to be a valuable collector’s item, potentially fetching a substantial sum in the market. However, the timeline for its return to the road is uncertain, as detailed restoration efforts are required before the car can reclaim its former glory.
