classic car

1970 Plymouth Superbird: A Million-Dollar Depreciation Story at Auction

Posted on by Hannah Lee

In the high-stakes world of classic car collecting, not every investment yields a profit. A stark example is the 1970 Plymouth Superbird, originally purchased for a remarkable $1.65 million in 2022, which recently fetched a significantly lower $418,000 at auction. This dramatic price drop highlights the volatile nature of the collector car market and the risks associated with high-value acquisitions.

A Collector’s Legacy and a Staggering Loss

The Superbird was one of 25 vehicles from the personal collection of the late Bobby Knudsen that his family presented at Mecum’s annual Indy sale. While the collection featured other desirable American classics, such as a 1940 Ford Deluxe coupe and a 1957 Chevrolet Bel-Air convertible, the striking orange Superbird commanded the most attention, largely due to its impressive, albeit ultimately depreciated, value.

The 1970 Plymouth Superbird remains one of the most visually audacious American production cars. Originally a heavily modified Plymouth Road Runner, it was produced for only one year to meet NASCAR’s homologation requirements. This iconic muscle car is equipped with a potent 426 Hemi engine delivering 425 horsepower, an aggressive aerodynamic kit, and famously, a horn that emulates the “meep, meep” sound of the cartoon character that inspired its name.

Knudsen’s Superbird is a rare variant, being one of 135 produced in 1970 and one of only 77 from that run featuring an automatic transmission. Critically, it is a number-matching example, meaning it retains its original big-block V-8 engine, a feature highly prized by collectors. However, even in 2022, the acquisition price of $1.65 million appeared to be an overpayment.

Prior to Knudsen’s purchase, the record for the most expensive Superbird sold was $990,000. Knudsen’s acquisition surpassed this significantly, with the car having been on track to sell for $1.1 million at a Barrett-Jackson auction in July 2022, before Knudsen intervened, driving the final bid to $1.5 million, which included the buyer’s premium.

Market Realities and Future Considerations

The recent auction results indicate a depreciation of nearly $1.2 million in less than three years. Adding to the Superbird’s resale story, another 1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird at the same Mecum Indy 2025 auction, with less than 21,000 miles, sold for a higher price of $550,000.

This event serves as a potent reminder that while classic cars can be significant assets, their market value can fluctuate dramatically. Factors such as provenance, originality, rarity, and current market trends all play a crucial role. For collectors considering high-value investments, thorough research and understanding of market dynamics are paramount. The appeal of iconic muscle cars like the Plymouth Superbird remains strong, but the financial outcomes can be unpredictable.

For more images of this iconic 1970 Plymouth Superbird, explore the gallery here.

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Hannah Lee

Certified in canine behavior and positive reinforcement training, Hannah writes practical guides that help owners understand their dogs’ emotions, habits, and learning patterns. She believes that patience and consistency are the keys to any successful training journey.