Plymouth Superbird

vs

Chevrolet Chevelle

USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1967

Plymouth Superbird (1970)
Chevrolet Chevelle (1967)
Specifications
Superbird 426 HemiChevelle SS 396 L35
Horsepower425 hp325 hp
Torque490 lb-ft425 lb-ft
Engine Size6,981 cc6,489 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed140 mph124 mph
¼ Mile13.5 sec14.8 sec
Weight3,750 lbs3,400 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm2,921 mm
Length5,639 mm5,055 mm
Units Produced1,92063,006
Original MSRP$4,298$2,825
Value (Excellent)$500,000$95,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity10/106/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi for outright capability, or the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

In the world of Muscle Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi versus the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 325 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Superbird uses a V8 OHV (426 Hemi) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Chevrolet Chevelle relies on a V8 OHV with 6,489 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Chevrolet Chevelle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 350 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,920 units built, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Chevelle's 63,006 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi commands a significant premium over the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.