Vietnam veteran sold his 1971 Dodge Super Bee after 53 years and the new owner found an important bonus inside

  • US Vietnam veteran owned this 1971 Dodge Super Bee for 53 years
  • However, its new owner found a surprise inside
  • It seriously boosts its value

 

Published on Dec 05, 2024 at 8:19 PM (UTC+4)
by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones

Last updated on Dec 06, 2024 at 12:07 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Tom Wood

A US Vietnam veteran owned this 1971 Dodge Super Bee for 53 years before its new owner found a surprise inside.

The single owner drove it sparingly, meaning it only has 17,300 miles – just under 28,000km – on the odometer.

It had been sitting unused since 1990.

It’s already rare – but something discovered under the seat makes it even more covetable.

DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie

The Dodge Super Bee

The veritable time capsule, bought by Utah-based Frank Fanelli of Fanelli Restorations, features the rare Blue Fire (B5 blue) exterior, roof, and interior.

It also boasts a rare N96 Ramcharger hood and C16 woodgrain center console

Only 5,054 Dodge Super Bees were produced in 1971.

Fewer than 500 had this specific combination of color and options – making this a super rare find.

While minor cosmetic restoration is needed, considering its age and neglect, the body is in excellent condition.

It has minimal rust, and mainly surface-level patina from natural aging.

What’s more, the car retains its original paint, trim, and emblems.

Under the hood, its 383 V8 Magnum engine is equipped with aftermarket valve covers, a Holley 850 carburetor, and an Edelbrock intake that needs several modifications for performance upgrades.

The surprise under the seat

As if this weren’t enough of a discovery, the time-capsule muscle car had another rare surprise.

It’s been lying hidden under the passenger seat for decades.

It’s the original, albeit damaged, broadcast sheet.

It adds serious historical value by confirming the car’s authenticity.

While at Supercar Blondie we’ve heard of a lot of strange things – like this disgusting bag – being discovered in barn finds – this is certainly one of the better ones.

Much like this New Jersey man who bought a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle and found a pleasant surprise under the hood.

Similarly, this junkyard owner was about to crush a Cadillac when he found treasure inside.

Sometimes we find the best things in the most unexpected places.

user

London-based Amelia cut her journalistic teeth covering all things lifestyle, wellness and luxury in the UK capital. Fast-forward a decade and the experienced content creator and editor has put pen to paper for glossy magazines, busy newsrooms and coveted brands. When her OOO is on you can find her spending quality time with her young family, in the gym or exploring the city she loves.