The 1970 Plymouth Superbird is one of those rare muscle cars that instantly turns heads. This particular example carries even more weight, as it was once part of the Sam Posey family. Posey, known as both a skilled racing driver and later a respected motorsport broadcaster, grew up around speed and competition, and this car connects directly to that legacy. With its outrageous aerodynamics, towering wing, and NASCAR roots, the Superbird is both a racing legend and a collectible classic.
A Superbird with Family Heritage
This Superbird was purchased in June 1971 by Mary J.P. Moore, the mother of racing driver and journalist Sam Posey. She kept the car until her passing in 2010, and the family history adds a fascinating human connection to its racing-inspired DNA. Later, the car changed hands but retained much of its originality, making it an especially desirable piece of muscle car history.
Design That Stood Out in 1970
Built for NASCAR homologation, Plymouth produced just 1,920 Superbirds for a single model year. The car’s unique Vitamin C Orange finish, massive 24-inch rear wing, aerodynamic nose cone, and Road Runner graphics made it instantly recognizable. It wasn’t subtle, but it was effective. Every feature was designed with speed and stability in mind, and it still looks outrageous today.
Power from the 440 Super Commando V8
Under the hood sits a 440ci Super Commando V8, factory-rated at 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Power flows through a four-speed manual transmission with a Hurst pistol-grip shifter, sending it to a Dana rear end with 3.54 gearing. For its time, this setup made the Superbird a serious performer, blending brute force with surprising drivability. Power steering and power-assisted front disc brakes gave it some control to match the muscle.
Restored and Preserved with Care
The car underwent a detailed disassembly and refresh after 2011. The nose cone was refinished, the headlight assemblies refurbished, carpeting replaced, and the engine compartment refreshed. Inside, the black vinyl bucket seats and dashboard maintain their period-correct look, with details like the “tic-toc” tachometer and AM radio bringing back the feel of 1970.
A Muscle Car with Documented History
What makes this car even more special is the extensive documentation that accompanies it. From its original broadcast sheet and service records to Connecticut registration papers and magazine features, the Superbird’s life story is well recorded. It has appeared in publications like Hemmings Muscle Machines, Hagerty Classic Cars, and Mopar Action, cementing its reputation as more than just another restored classic.
Why This Superbird Matters
Not every Superbird comes with this level of history, preservation, and authenticity. With only 29k miles, its connection to the Posey family, and its standout condition, this car blends muscle car mythology with a deeply personal ownership history. It represents the golden era of NASCAR homologation cars, when manufacturers built wild machines for the track and then delivered them to the street.
Summary
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird remains one of the most distinctive muscle cars ever created. With its NASCAR heritage, outrageous design, and 440ci V8 power, it is already legendary. Add in its unique Posey family ownership and preservation, and this example becomes a truly irreplaceable piece of automotive history.
Disclaimer: Details provided are based on available information about this specific 1970 Plymouth Superbird and may not reflect every aspect of the vehicle’s condition.
