If you lack a Mopar or No Car tattoo, it’s challenging to resist the charm of a vintage Chrysler project that goes all out. Notable examples include Kevin Hart’s Hellcat-transformed Plymouth Barracuda and the 1970 Dodge Charger boasting a hefty 1,000 horsepower that succeeded it. These builds were the work of Speedkore Performance, the renowned Wisconsin establishment recognized for extravagant restomods that bring modern Dodges and historic Shelbys to their peak performance. The next vehicle set to follow this trend is Plymouth’s racing-inspired darling, the Superbird, for which Speedkore will contribute its expertise in carbon fiber craftsmanship.
News of the Superbird refresh appeared in our inbox through self-explanatory images accompanied by the term “carbon fiber.” While another shop handles the completion of the rest of the car, Speedkore is tasked with the custom front fascia. The images showcase a mold designed to mimic the distinctive, air-piercing nosecone of the Plymouth—a feature easily discernible from the similar Dodge Charger Daytona due to the noticeable ridge along the bumper’s edge.
Plymouth Superbird nosecone mold for carbon fiber panels, Speedkore via Kahn Media
These pair of Chrysler “aero warriors” were pivotal in propelling stock car racing into the 200-mph territory (beyond the contemporary limits set by tire technology) and spurred NASCAR to implement performance constraints. Mopar’s trailblazers in low drag were the initial and most impacted, being compelled to deploy either smaller 5.0-liter engines or carry extra weight. The latter handicap could have been alleviated if engineers could concentrate ballast at the base with the assistance of composite body panels. In this regard, Speedkore’s utilization of carbon fiber is akin to what Plymouth would have pursued if they had access to this technology in the past.
As disclosed by Speedkore, the Plymouth’s front section will, in line with its standards, consist of pre-preg carbon fiber, yielding components with enduring strength, uniform thickness, and consistent weave pattern. The end product will be top-caliber material, comparable to the sort of innovation that could have been groundbreaking in late-60s stock car racing as it was in 80s Formula 1.
Like everyone else, we are eager to learn more about the plans for this Superbird, especially the powerhouse under the hood. It’s anticipated to be something as remarkable as a nine-liter racing engine, or at minimum, a twin-turbo, 1,500-horsepower Hellcat V8. Undoubtedly, either option is extravagant enough for the lightweight Superbird.
Correction at 9:45 a.m. on 03/18/2021: This article formerly mentioned that the entire vehicle would be assembled by Speedkore. In reality, the shop is exclusively providing the Superbird’s carbon fiber nosecone. The Drive apologizes for the mistake.
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