Eleanor Mustang: The Iconic Car from Gone in 60 Seconds
The 1967 Ford Mustang, affectionately known as “Eleanor,” achieved legendary status thanks to its starring role in the 2000 film Gone in 60 Seconds. More than just a beautiful machine, Eleanor represents a symbol of automotive passion, daring heists, and a timeless design that continues to captivate car enthusiasts worldwide. This article delves into the history of the car, its modifications for the film, and its enduring legacy.
Before its cinematic fame, the 1967 Ford Mustang was already a celebrated vehicle. Introduced in 1964, the Mustang quickly became an icon of American muscle and freedom. Its sleek lines, powerful engine options, and relatively affordable price point made it a hit with a broad audience. The 1967 model year brought significant styling updates, including a more aggressive front end and a larger engine bay, solidifying its place in automotive history.
The Birth of Eleanor: From Concept to Screen
While the original 1967 Mustang was impressive, the Eleanor featured in Gone in 60 Seconds was a heavily modified creation. The film’s producers wanted a car that was both visually striking and capable of performing thrilling stunts. They turned to Chip Foose, a renowned custom car designer, and his team at Foose Design to bring their vision to life. Foose wasn’t initially tasked with designing Eleanor; the original concept was different. However, after some creative differences, Foose was given free rein, resulting in the iconic design we know today.
The team started with a standard 1967 Ford Mustang fastback. They then embarked on a comprehensive customization process. The body was meticulously modified with fiberglass panels to achieve a more aggressive and unique appearance. A significant change was the addition of side-exit exhaust pipes, giving the car a distinctive growl and visual flair. The paint color, a deep metallic gray with black racing stripes, further enhanced its menacing look. The car’s overall stance was lowered, and wider wheels and tires were added to improve handling and give it a more imposing presence. If you're interested in learning more about classic car restoration, you might find information about restoration techniques helpful.
Key Modifications and Features
- Body Kit: Custom fiberglass body kit designed by Chip Foose, including unique hood, fenders, and rear quarter panels.
- Paint: Deep metallic gray with black racing stripes.
- Wheels & Tires: 17-inch American Racing Torque Thrust wheels with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires.
- Engine: A powerful Ford 5.7L V8 engine with electronic fuel injection.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission.
- Suspension: Upgraded suspension system for improved handling.
- Interior: Custom interior with sport seats and a modern sound system.
- Side-Exit Exhaust: Distinctive side-exit exhaust pipes.
Beyond the visual modifications, Eleanor was also equipped with a high-performance engine and drivetrain. A Ford 5.7L V8 engine, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, provided ample power and control. The suspension was upgraded to handle the increased performance and ensure a smooth ride. The interior was also customized with sport seats and a modern sound system, creating a comfortable and stylish environment for the driver.
The Hero Cars and Their Fate
Several Eleanor Mustangs were built for the filming of Gone in 60 Seconds. There were “hero” cars used for close-up shots and pristine scenes, and “stunt” cars used for the action sequences. Not all of the cars survived the demanding filming process. Some were damaged during stunts, while others were sold to collectors after production wrapped. One of the hero cars, owned by Ray Mummery, sold at auction for a staggering $1 million, demonstrating the car’s immense value and desirability. The story of Eleanor is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American muscle cars.
Eleanor’s Enduring Legacy
Eleanor’s appearance in Gone in 60 Seconds catapulted the 1967 Mustang to new heights of popularity. The car became a cultural icon, inspiring countless replicas and tributes. Today, Eleanor Mustangs are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The car’s design continues to influence automotive styling, and its story serves as a reminder of the passion and creativity that can go into building a truly exceptional machine. The impact of this vehicle extends beyond the automotive world, influencing popular culture and inspiring a generation of car lovers. For those interested in the broader history of automotive design, exploring automotive trends can provide valuable context.
Building Your Own Eleanor Tribute
While owning an original Eleanor Mustang is beyond the reach of most enthusiasts, building a tribute car is a popular and rewarding project. Numerous companies offer reproduction body kits and parts, allowing you to recreate the iconic look of Eleanor. The process can be challenging, requiring significant mechanical and fabrication skills, but the end result is a stunning tribute to a legendary car. Many online forums and communities are dedicated to Eleanor Mustang builds, providing valuable resources and support for aspiring builders. Remember to prioritize safety and quality when undertaking such a project.
Conclusion
The Eleanor Mustang from Gone in 60 Seconds is more than just a movie car; it’s a symbol of automotive excellence and a testament to the power of design. Its striking appearance, powerful performance, and captivating story have cemented its place in automotive history. Whether you’re a die-hard Mustang fan or simply appreciate beautiful cars, Eleanor’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. The car represents a perfect blend of classic American muscle and modern customization, making it a timeless icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How many Eleanor Mustangs were actually made for the movie?
There were several Eleanor Mustangs built for Gone in 60 Seconds – three hero cars used for beauty shots and close-ups, and several stunt cars used for the action sequences. Not all of them survived filming intact.
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What engine does the Eleanor Mustang have?
The Eleanor Mustang featured in the film was equipped with a Ford 5.7L V8 engine with electronic fuel injection. This engine provided ample power for both on-screen appearances and demanding stunt work.
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Where can I find parts to build an Eleanor tribute car?
Numerous companies specialize in reproduction body kits and parts for Eleanor Mustangs. A quick online search will reveal several suppliers offering everything you need to recreate the iconic look.
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How much does an original Eleanor Mustang cost?
Original Eleanor Mustangs are incredibly valuable and rare. One of the hero cars sold at auction for $1 million, and prices for other surviving examples are likely to be similarly high.
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Was Chip Foose the original designer of Eleanor?
Initially, the design concept for Eleanor was different. However, after some creative disagreements, Chip Foose was given the freedom to redesign the car, resulting in the iconic look we know today.
