1970 Dodge Super Bee: History, Specs, And Value

The 1970 Dodge Super Bee is a muscle car legend, revered for its potent performance and distinctive styling. A true icon of the era, the Super Bee represents the pinnacle of Dodge's commitment to raw power and aggressive design. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the history, specifications, and current market value of this coveted classic.

What Made the 1970 Dodge Super Bee So Special?

The Super Bee was Dodge's budget-friendly entry into the muscle car arena, offering impressive performance without the premium price tag of its Charger sibling. The 1970 model year was particularly significant as it marked a major redesign, giving the Super Bee a unique and instantly recognizable appearance. Key features that contributed to its appeal include: — Aces Vs. Sky: WNBA Rivalry Breakdown

• Aggressive Styling: The '70 Super Bee sported a bold new front end with a dual-loop bumper, a menacing grille, and a prominent power bulge hood.
• High-Performance Engines: A range of potent engines were available, from the standard 383 Magnum to the legendary 426 Hemi.
• Driver-Focused Interior: The cockpit was designed with the driver in mind, featuring a performance-oriented instrument panel and comfortable seating.
• Affordable Price: Compared to other muscle cars in its class, the Super Bee offered exceptional bang for the buck.

A Look Back at the Super Bee's History

The Dodge Super Bee was introduced in 1968 as a competitor to the popular Plymouth Road Runner. Both cars were based on Chrysler's B-body platform and aimed to provide maximum performance at an affordable price. The Super Bee was initially offered as a two-door coupe, with a hardtop version added in 1969.

The 1970 model year brought a significant redesign, with the Super Bee receiving a new front end, rear end, and interior. The most noticeable change was the dual-loop front bumper, which gave the car a distinctive and aggressive look. Other styling updates included a new grille, hood, and taillights. — Las Vegas To Toronto: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Unfortunately, 1970 was also the Super Bee's final year on the Coronet platform. In 1971, the Super Bee was moved to the Charger platform, where it remained until it was discontinued in 1971. Despite its short lifespan, the Super Bee left an indelible mark on muscle car history.

Engine Options and Performance Specs

One of the Super Bee's most appealing aspects was its wide range of engine options. Buyers could choose from several powerful engines, each offering a unique driving experience. Here's a rundown of the available engine choices for the 1970 model year: — Frank White Recall: What You Need To Know

• 383 Magnum V8: The standard engine, producing 335 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. A strong and reliable workhorse.
• 440 Six-Pack V8: An upgrade option, featuring three two-barrel carburetors for a total output of 390 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. A true street bruiser.
• 426 Hemi V8: The top-of-the-line engine, delivering a staggering 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. A legendary powerplant known for its explosive acceleration. (Source: https://www.musclecarclub.com/dodge-super-bee/)

The 426 Hemi-equipped Super Bees were the quickest, capable of running the quarter-mile in the low 14-second range at speeds exceeding 100 mph. Even the 383 Magnum offered respectable performance, making the Super Bee a formidable competitor on the street and strip.

Interior and Exterior Features

The 1970 Super Bee boasted a driver-centric interior with a focus on performance. The instrument panel featured a large speedometer and tachometer, along with gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. The seats were comfortable and supportive, providing ample room for passengers.

On the outside, the Super Bee's bold styling made it stand out from the crowd. The dual-loop front bumper was the most prominent feature, but the car also sported a unique grille, hood, and taillights. Available options included a rear spoiler, hood pins, and bold graphics.

Exterior Color Options:

• Bright Blue Metallic
• Bright Green Metallic
• Dark Gold Metallic
• Hemi Orange
• Plum Crazy
• Sublime
• Tor Red
• White
• Yellow

Interior Options:

• Bench Seat
• Bucket Seats
• Center Console
• Woodgrain Trim

What Is a 1970 Dodge Super Bee Worth Today?

The value of a 1970 Dodge Super Bee can vary widely depending on several factors, including:

• Engine: Hemi-equipped cars command the highest prices, followed by 440 Six-Pack and 383 Magnum models.
• Condition: Pristine, original examples are worth considerably more than cars in need of restoration.
• Rarity: Certain options and colors can increase a car's value.
• Documentation: Cars with original paperwork and documentation are more desirable to collectors.

As of 2023, a 1970 Dodge Super Bee in good condition can fetch anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 or more. Hemi-powered examples in concours condition can easily exceed $150,000. (Source: https://www.nadaguides.com/)

Factors Influencing Value:

• Numbers-matching engine and transmission
• Original paint and interior
• Rare options (e.g., Hemi engine, sunroof)
• Documented history (e.g., build sheet, window sticker)

Restoring a 1970 Dodge Super Bee

Restoring a classic muscle car like the 1970 Dodge Super Bee can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor. It's essential to have a clear plan and budget before starting a restoration project.

Key Considerations:

• Budget: Restoration costs can quickly escalate, so it's important to set a realistic budget and stick to it.
• Parts Availability: Some Super Bee parts can be difficult to find, so research parts availability before committing to a restoration.
• Expertise: Consider hiring a professional restoration shop if you lack the necessary skills or experience.
• Originality: Decide whether you want to restore the car to its original condition or make modifications.

Tips for a Successful Restoration:

• Start with a solid foundation: Choose a car with minimal rust and structural damage.
• Document everything: Take photos and notes throughout the restoration process.
• Source quality parts: Use original or high-quality reproduction parts.
• Be patient: Restoration takes time and effort, so don't rush the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How many 1970 Dodge Super Bees were made? A: Dodge produced approximately 15,506 Super Bees for the 1970 model year. This included both coupe and hardtop versions.

Q: What is the most desirable engine for a 1970 Super Bee? A: The 426 Hemi V8 is the most sought-after engine, commanding the highest prices among collectors.

Q: What is the difference between a Dodge Super Bee and a Dodge Charger? A: The Super Bee was Dodge's entry-level muscle car, while the Charger was a more upscale and luxurious model. The Super Bee was initially based on the Coronet platform, while the Charger had its own unique platform.

Q: What is the significance of the Super Bee name? A: The "Bee" in Super Bee was derived from the B-body designation shared by Chrysler's mid-size cars, including the Coronet and Charger. It was also a playful nod to the car's performance capabilities.

Q: Are 1970 Dodge Super Bees a good investment? A: Yes, classic muscle cars like the 1970 Super Bee have proven to be excellent investments over the long term. Values have generally appreciated over time, and well-maintained examples are likely to continue to increase in value.

Q: Where can I find a 1970 Dodge Super Bee for sale? A: You can find Super Bees for sale at classic car auctions, online marketplaces, and through private sellers. Be sure to do your research and inspect the car thoroughly before making a purchase.

Conclusion

The 1970 Dodge Super Bee remains a highly desirable muscle car for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its potent performance, aggressive styling, and relatively affordable price made it a standout in its day, and its legacy continues to resonate today. Whether you're looking to add a classic to your collection or simply appreciate automotive history, the 1970 Super Bee is a true icon of the muscle car era.

If you're considering purchasing a classic muscle car, remember to do your due diligence and research the specific model and its history. Knowing the car's background, potential issues, and market value will help you make an informed decision. The 1970 Dodge Super Bee is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a thrilling and valuable piece of automotive history.