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.
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Nick Aylieff | Classic Motors For Sale |
