Immortalized in the 2000 remake of “Gone in 60 Seconds,” “Eleanor,” the modified 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500, captured the imaginations of car enthusiasts worldwide. While the film itself achieved cult status, the Pepper Grey muscle car with its twin black racing stripes undeniably became the true star. Recognizing its enduring appeal, Classic Recreations of Oklahoma secured an official license to reproduce this on-screen hero, creating meticulously built tributes to the legendary “Eleanor.” The example offered here is one such officially licensed reproduction, completed in early 2008 after an extensive 2,500-hour build process.
Meticulous Reproduction with Modern Engineering: This “Eleanor” by Classic Recreations is built using a brand-new 1967 Mustang Fastback bodyshell supplied by Dynacorn under license from the Ford Motor Company, ensuring a solid and accurate foundation. Beneath the iconic exterior lies a host of modern performance upgrades designed to deliver a driving experience befitting its legendary status. The car features front and rear coil-over suspension for enhanced handling, powerful Wilwood disc brakes for confident stopping, and purposeful side-exit exhausts that announce its potent capabilities.
Potent Keith Craft Racing V-8 Power: Engine and Performance: At the heart of this “Eleanor” resides a formidable 410 cubic-inch (6.7-liter) Keith Craft Racing V-8 engine. Fed by a mass flow fuel injection system, this powerhouse delivers a brutal 545 horsepower, providing exhilarating acceleration and the kind of raw power expected from a Shelby GT500. The engine exhales through distinctive side-exit exhausts, contributing to its aggressive sound and visual appeal. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a Tremec manual transmission, offering the driver complete engagement and control over the car’s impressive performance.
Hollywood Touches and Performance Enhancements: This officially licensed reproduction retains the special “Eleanor” touches that made it famous on screen. These include the signature 17-inch Phil Schmidt Engineering wheels and “Gone in 60 Seconds” badging. Adding to the movie mystique is a disarmed nitrous system, complete with the iconic “Go-Baby-Go” red boost button on the gear lever, a nod to the film’s memorable moments. Inside, the car features Scat Rally Series 1000 seats equipped with five-point harnesses, a woodgrain aluminum steering wheel, and 1967-correct Mustang Deluxe door panels, dashboard, and trim, seamlessly blending the classic aesthetic with modern safety and comfort. Amenities such as air conditioning and electric mirrors further enhance the driving experience.
An Homage to a Cinematic Legend: This 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 “Eleanor” by Classic Recreations is more than just a car; it’s a meticulously crafted tribute to one of the most iconic vehicles in modern cinema history. With the official blessing of the movie’s creators, this reproduction captures the spirit and essence of “Eleanor” while incorporating modern engineering and performance. It is certain to attract attention and admiration wherever it goes, appealing to both movie buffs and classic car enthusiasts alike.
Summary:
- Officially licensed reproduction of the “Eleanor” 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 from “Gone in 60 Seconds.”
- Built by Classic Recreations over 2,500 hours using a new Dynacorn bodyshell.
- Powered by a 410 cubic-inch (6.7-liter) Keith Craft Racing V-8 engine producing 545 horsepower.
- Features a Tremec manual transmission and side-exit exhausts.
- Includes “Eleanor” styling cues, disarmed nitrous system, and “Gone in 60 Seconds” badging.
- Equipped with coil-over suspension, Wilwood disc brakes, and modern interior amenities.
Disclaimer: This vehicle is a reproduction and not an original 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 used in the film. Performance figures are as stated by the builder.
Source : rmsothebys.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
