The factory wars of the 1960s were a brutal fight on and off the track. Most are well aware of some of the engineering developments that happened, as well as the fact that this 1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird represents the ultimate coupling of that technology. The 426 Hemi engine was born in 1964 to win races, and NASCAR rules changes caused it to become a street production engine in 1966. Likewise, the aero-styled Superbird model was the culmination of body reshaping reaching its apex with this model. Though almost 2,000 units were built, this beautiful car is one of just 135 Hemi Superbirds produced for this homologation program. Unlike some more basic examples, the Hemi versions tended to receive good optional equipment, and this car is no exception. Of course, what more needs to be stated about the engine itself. Equipped with two 4-barrel carburetors on an aluminum intake, the Hemi trademarks are the special hemispherical heads with spark plugs centered on the valve covers, which serve as an instant identifier. Rated at 425 HP, the 426 Hemi V-8 engine had no true rivals as a race-bred street engine either; it was produced far longer than any similar OEM production engine of the era, and it always commanded a premium in both value and respect. Here, it is mated to the A727 TorqueFlite automatic transmission, and this car also benefits from the A36 Performance Axle Package, mandated by the Superbird package and adding a Sure Grip-equipped 3.55 differential, power brakes with front discs, extreme-duty cooling accessories and more. Ordering the Hemi automatically resulted in special frame, chassis and suspension pieces as the body was initially being created at Plymouth’s Lynch Road plant, where all Superbirds originated, and this car also has power steering. The color selected here—FY1 Lemon Twist Yellow—cost extra, and that exterior is accented by the mandatory black vinyl top and a matched black interior. Unlike base versions, this car received bucket seats and a center console with floor shifter, a pushbutton AM radio, a Rallye dash with Tic-Toc-Tach and 150 MPH speedometer, wood-grain accent trim and the iconic Road Runner horn button. The outside features the nosecone with headlamp blackout, special sheet metal changes, hood pins, simulated air-extraction fender scoops, A-pillar streamlining, a flush rear window and a tall deck wing. The finishing touches are the Rallye wheels with Goodyear Polyglas GT F60-15 tires. This gorgeous example of the most notorious of all Plymouth NASCAR packaging will include a window sticker, broadcast sheet, owner’s manual, original warranty certification and historic titles. For those who have considered the ownership of a Superbird and desire the notoriety of Hemi power within it, this might be the car they’re looking for, even in a brutal fight.
