![]() Under the hood of this original Superbird (except for the one repaint)is a well detailed “born with” 440 Super Commando V-8 engine factory rated at a modest 375 horsepower rating at 4,600 rpm. A professional factory correct paint finish was applied and has held up extremely well after nearly 10 years with no signs of wear or degradation. The (B5) Fire Blue Metallic paint was stained and faded beyond a typical rubout or polish state. It remained in full pace car form until early 2000 when the owner attempted to put it back to factory form, only to realize it was too late. Purchased new from Alley Motors in Church Hill, Tennessee, a short distance from Bristol International Speedway, the Superbird was done up with traditional colorful logos, decals and stickers to get the word out or advertise his local business. The exact nature of its role is not clear but documents and photographs support the claim. The original owner resided in Kingsport, Tennessee, and used it as a pace car at Bristol International Speedway during the NASCAR racing season in the early ’70s to showcase his Oakwood Union 76 filling station. While talking to the owner’s widow prior to the purchase, she revealed this Superbird had a connection to NASCAR racing. Tucked away in North Carolina was a numbers-matching Fire Blue Metallic 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird. In 2010, Steve Liabenow had the fortune to acquire one of the most recognized and coveted automobiles from NASCAR’s past. It takes a special driver and automobile like the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird to serve as the “Official Pace Car”. The pace car also serves as a group organizer at the start of a race and during interruptions to control the flow of traffic caused by crashes, blown tires and other unforeseen circumstances during the typical NASCAR event. Back in the ’50s, ’60s and early ’70s, it was common for private companies or individuals to dress up a special automobile with unique graphics, decals and paint scheme as an advertising tool or rolling billboard. Automobile manufacturers jockey each year for the opportunity to have their product at the forefront showcasing a current model. His family has been attending Bristol 500 races for nearly 30 years as season ticket holders.ĭuring a typical oval track racing event, it’s hard to miss the pace car at the front of the pack. NASCAR racing and big block Mopars have been a huge part of Steve Liabenow’s life. A One-time Bristol International Speedway “Plymouth Road Runner Superbird” Pace Car has resurfaced in the “Motor City” minus the graphics
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |