Ford has displayed a celebration edition of the Mustang that is inspired by the 50th anniversary of the film Bullitt – which starred a first-generation Mustang.
Driven by Steve McQueen in the 1968 action film, the Mustang was the main feature in the iconic car chase that took place midway through the feature, and Ford has decided to create a special version in the year of the film’s anniversary.
Based on the recently released Mustang, it is painted in the iconic Dark Highland green paint, has black detailing on the body and aluminium 19-inch alloys, and is also de-badged, just like the one drove by McQueen. Other exterior details make it a fully unique design for the special edition.
Under the bonnet is a 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 474bhp and 569Nm of torque, meaning a top speed of 163mph – 8mph faster than the current V8 Mustang. It is paired to a six-speed manual transmission.
It was unveiled at the North American International Automobile Show (NAIAS) by Steve McQueen’s granddaughter, Molly, who also starred in a film to show off the new special edition – fighting against a Dodge Charger for the final parking space in a car park, mirroring the iconic chase in Bullitt.
Inside, the Bullitt edition comes with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, a heated leather steering wheel, Recaro leather sports seats and a special Bullitt welcome message on the infotainment system, which has satellite navigation and smartphone connectivity.
Darrell Behmer, Mustang chief designer, said: “This new Bullitt is, as Steve McQueen was, effortlessly cool.
“As a designer, it’s my favorite Mustang – devoid of stripes, spoilers and badges. It doesn’t need to scream about anything – it’s just cool.”
Although the special edition is only available in the United States, British customers can still enjoy the spirit of the Bullitt Mustang in the V8 Mustang, which is currently on sale in the UK from £41,095.