This bird is a rare one.
The Plymouth Superbird isn’t unusual enough. This one also has an unusual past. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bought it in 1972 to measure the effects of airplane emissions. It has been restored and will be up for auction by Barrett-Jackson in Oct.
This one-of-a kind Superbird was specially fitted with Nichels Engineering’s emission-testing equipment under contract to the Federal Government. It was built to withstand jetliners flying at speeds up to 100 mph and record data. The purchase was influenced by its massive rear wings and sleek body.
The V8 engine, which is 375 horsepower, was capable of enduring the 100 mph takeoff speed. The column-shifted automatic was not able to withstand the 100 mph takeoff speeds so it was replaced with a Chrysler four speed manual. This allowed for more precise control at high speeds in the 40-second test.
The EPA used it for a long time before selling it to a teacher at a high school shop for $500 in 1979. The original equipment for testing was removed from the car and the owner returned it to stock. It was kept by him for 24 years, before he sold it in 2005. The car was restored to an almost-new condition and re-fitted using the same testing equipment as in 1972.
It will be the centerpiece of Barrett Jackson’s Las Vegas auction in October. But don’t expect it to fetch $500. This unique piece of automotive history, which is often sold at six-figures, should sell for even more.