Bullitt Mustang–raw power
By Michael Binstock
Acorn Automotive Editor

When Steve McQueen raced through the streets of San Francisco in the movie "Bullitt", he probably had no idea that it was the making of a legend. In memory of one of the greatest car chase scenes ever, Ford has brought the magic back with the special edition Mustang Bullitt GT, a performance derivative inspired by the classic Warner Bros. Pictures film.

"The 1968 Fastback Mustang GT 390, top above, driven by Steve McQueen, created an indelible image in the minds of millions of people," says Jim O’Connor, president of Ford Division. The 2001 Mustang Bullitt GT features exterior enhancements that visually and emotionally connects it to the 1968 Fastback featured in the film. These modifications include unique side scoops, 17-inch Bullitt-style aluminum wheels and a lowered suspension. The C-pillars and quarter panel moldings have been modified to create a unique look. Rocker-panel moldings enhance the low-to-the-ground appearance. A bold, brushed aluminum fuel filler door is prominently placed on the quarter panel. Bullitt badging and polished-rolled tailpipe tips further distinguish the car.

My test car was painted Dark Highland Green, the color that carries the image of the car used in the film. Bucket seats with Dark Charcoal leather trim and a brushed aluminum shifter added to the retro feel. The instrument cluster gives a modern look to the 1960s interior with unique curved numeric speedometer graphics and a white-lit background.

The heart of the Mustang Bullitt GT is a 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 engine modified to improve airflow. It produces 265 horsepower and a broader torque curve compared with the Mustang GT engine. It is a powerful, very fast and fun car to drive. It is also only available with a slick five-speed manual transmission. Modifications include twin 57 mm bore throttle body, cast aluminum intake manifold, high-flow mufflers for increased power and aggressive performance sound and optimized alternator and pump pulley ratios. Its performance-handling package includes re-valved struts and shocks, unique stabilizer bars (front and rear) and frame rail connectors. The vehicle is lowered three-fourths of an inch to generate improved handling characteristics. Thirteen-inch Brembo front rotors and performance calipers provide impressive stopping capability. The calipers are painted red and are visible through the 17-inch wheel spokes when the car is parked or when it is cruising the streets of San Francisco.

I understand that the Ford engineers even went to the movie soundtrack to recreate the sound that the car makes. Chad McQueen, Steve McQueen’s son, worked closely with Ford on the development of the Mustang Bullitt GT to honor the memory of Steve McQueen.

"With the Mustang Bullitt GT, we have a lot of functional features that would make Steve McQueen and Lt. Frank Bullitt proud today," adds O’Connor. "Bullitt has elevated the GT into an unforgettable car that enhances Ford’s performance reputation and builds on Mustang’s rich heritage that began with vehicle like the Mach 1, Boss 302 and the 428 Cobra Jet."

There will be limited production of only 6,500 Mustang Bullitt GTs built as other Mustangs on the same assembly line at the Dearborn Assembly Plant in Michigan. The same plant once produced the famous Ford Model T. Each Bullitt comes with a unique serialized identification label from the factory, making the car a hot collectible.

I remember watching "Bullitt" when it first appeared in the theatres and being amazed at the car, the chase scene and San Francisco. I had a chance to drive the Bullitt Mustang hard and fast during my week with the car–perhaps not as hard and fast as Lt. Bullitt, but I could dream.

If you want to experience the dream, Vista Ford on Ventura Blvd. in Woodland Hills has a Bullitt Mustang in their showroom. Ask for a test drive but watch out for our hills!