Classic news news 6

The Story of Steve McQueen's Lost Bullitt

One of the two 1968 Mustang GT fastbacks used in the iconic Steve McQueen film Bullitt , long thought to have been scrapped was found in a junkyard in Mexico. The other Mustang from the film is known to be in private hands, likely in Kentucky, making this find particularly significant as it doubles the number of verified Bullitt cars still in existence.

The Mustang is believed to be the one modified with beefed-up suspension components for the film's famous action sequences, which include one of the most celebrated car chases in movie history. The two Dodge Chargers used in Bullitt are thought to have been destroyed, further highlighting the rarity and importance of this Mustang. Its discovery was reported by the Los Angeles Times, which noted that the car was found in a Baja California scrapyard by a man searching for vintage Mustangs to restore as replicas of Eleanor from Gone in 60 Seconds.

Ralph Garcia, Jr., who builds Eleanor replicas in Paramount, California, was involved in the discovery. An associate of Garcia’s identified the Mustang in the scrapyard as a potential candidate for restoration and sent it to a facility in Mexicali. Upon checking the vehicle identification number (VIN), Garcia realized he might have stumbled upon the elusive Bullitt car. Ford expert evaluator Kevin Marti, known for verifying the provenance of classic cars, confirmed the car's authenticity by examining the VIN and the specific modifications made for the film.

Car historian and museum curator Ken Gross emphasized the significance of the find, calling it one of the top-10 most desirable missing cars. However, Marti noted that the car would have been more valuable in its original, as-found state. Garcia, who has received offers for the car, mentioned that it is not currently for sale and hinted at future plans for a complete restoration, possibly leading to an appearance at a Mecum or Barrett-Jackson auction.

As Bullitt approaches its 50th anniversary, this discovery resonates with both long-time fans and newer generations of car enthusiasts. The film's chase scenes, shot with real driving stunts and minimal special effects, remain legendary. For those who haven’t seen the movie, it’s worth watching to understand the impact and excitement that continue to surround this classic piece of automotive and cinematic history.

If you are interested in exploring advertising with us, I encourage you to get in touch. Please feel free to contact me directly, and I will be more than happy to provide you with further information, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the process.

Nick Aylieff | Classic Motors For Sale | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. +44(0) 2392 160 809 | www.classicmotorsforsale.com

Super Rare Swallow Doretti Turns 70

The Swallow Doretti, an elegant British sports car, is a significant yet lesser-known chapter in the post-war automotive industry. Produced between 1954 and 1955 by the Swallow Coachbuilding Company, a division of Tube Investments Group, the Doretti's story is one of ambition, innovation, and an abrupt end. The company, initially famous for manufacturing sidecars for motorcycles, entered the automotive scene in the 1920s and expanded its horizons in the 1950s by producing the Doretti, designed by Frank Rainbow. Named after Dorothy Deen, who was instrumental in marketing the vehicle in the United States, the Doretti aimed to capture the American sports car market.

S2 Classic Cars | 1955 Swallow Doretti | €67,500.00

Built on a robust tubular steel chassis, the Doretti featured a two-seater roadster body made of steel and aluminum. It housed the reliable Triumph TR2 engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant that delivered around 90 horsepower, allowing the car to achieve a top speed of approximately 100 mph. The Doretti's design emphasized both style and comfort, featuring a long, graceful bonnet, flowing fender lines, and a distinctive front grille, along with a well-appointed interior with leather seats and a stylish dashboard.

Launched in 1954, the Swallow Doretti was aimed primarily at the lucrative American market, where British sports cars were in high demand. Its blend of performance, style, and relative affordability made it an attractive option. However, despite its initial success and positive reception, the Doretti faced stiff competition from established brands like MG and Jaguar.

Despite its potential, the Doretti's production run was short-lived, with just over 270 units produced by 1955. Internal politics within Tube Investments, safety concerns from high-profile accidents, and challenging British export policies contributed to its early demise. These factors led to the decision to cease production after only one year.

Today, the Swallow Doretti is a rare and cherished classic, highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its limited production run has added to its allure, and well-preserved models command high prices at auctions. The Doretti stands as a symbol of post-war innovation and ambition, embodying the spirit of an era when British car manufacturers were at the forefront of sports car design. While it may not be as well-known as some of its contemporaries, the Doretti's legacy endures, celebrated by those who appreciate its unique blend of style, performance, and history.

All Stories

The Story of Steve McQueen's Lost Bullitt

Super Rare Swallow Doretti Turns 70