Rare factory V-code Superbird
1 of 408 produced with the TorqueFlite automatic transmission
OEM-style rotisserie restoration
Date code-correct 440/390 HP 6-BBL V-8 engine
Two original broadcast sheets
A36 Performance Axle Package with 3.55 Sure Grip
Power steering
Power brakes with front discs

Although themed around a popular cartoon character, the Plymouth Superbird was strictly business. Cars like the rare factory V-code Superbird here were quickly created late in 1969 to legalize parts for superspeedway racing, and other than the special Charger Daytona, nothing on the road looked anything like them.

This example is one of 408 produced with the 440/390 HP 6-BBL Super Commando engine backed by the TorqueFlite automatic transmission. This car has undergone an OEM-style rotisserie restoration, with its factory options documented on two original broadcast sheets. Under the hood resides the date-code-correct 6 BBL V-8 engine with its trio of Holley 2-barrel carburetors. Every Bird received two engineering-coded numbers: A13 for the Road Runner-based Special Order RM23 Superbird package, and a drivetrain code, which here is A36, the Performance Axle Package featuring the A727 TorqueFlite automatic transmission, 3.55 Sure Grip differential and heavy-duty cooling. Power front disc brakes and power steering were also included in code A13.

The body is covered in FJ5 Limelight green paint, with black Plymouth rear quarter lettering and a black vinyl top, which was mandated by the bodywork to install the exclusive rear window glass. Front fenders and the hood, borrowed from the Dodge Coronet, enabled streamlined nose adaptations to be designed quickly. In addition to the other aero restyling, code A13 further provided for the functional hood pins, rear-facing fender-mounted air scoops and exclusive wide A-pillar trim.

Inside is a black bench seat with silver accents and adjustable headrests, plus a pushbutton AM radio, Tic-Toc-Tach, 150 MPH speedometer and steering wheel horn center connected to the blue “Voice of Road Runner” horn underhood. The cartoon icon decaling is found in various other locations, most prominently on the towering rear wing pylons. This car’s appearance is completed with a set of Rallye wheels and Goodyear Polyglas F70-14 tires. The Superbird won many races, including the 1970 Daytona 500, before NASCAR changed the rules, leaving these street models as a testament to Detroit’s “Win on Sunday, sell on Monday” ethos.