After conquering European endurance racing, Ford set its sights on domestic dominance in NASCAR. Throughout the 1960s, the Blue Oval ruled the manufacturer’s championship, but the driver’s title remained a battleground.
Richard Petty, a stock car superstar, amassed an impressive 101 wins during the decade, even while driving a Ford in 1969. A legendary story emerged that year: when Chrysler released the aerodynamically-designed Dodge Charger Daytona and denied Petty’s request for a similar Plymouth, he switched allegiances and landed a deal with Ford.
In 1970, Chrysler attempted to rectify their mistake by offering Petty the coveted car – the Plymouth Superbird. While the car itself became a historic symbol, particularly Petty’s iconic number 43, it didn’t propel him to a championship win.
Despite its lack of impact on Petty’s record, the Superbird remains forever linked to his legendary career. A legendary Plymouth Superbird is roaring back to life for a special European event.
Richard Petty’s iconic race car, retired from competition in 1970, is prepped for its grand reappearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. After three years on display at the Petty Museum, the crew meticulously readied the car for its transatlantic voyage.
A test drive by Kyle Petty, the owner’s son, marked a momentous occasion his childhood dream of driving his father’s championship car finally coming true.
The powerful engine’s rumble promises a show-stopping performance, a thrilling counterpoint to the growing presence of silent electric vehicles.
