Ford Unleashes New Bullitt Mustang for the Film’s 50th Anniversary

Two things in life are certain, death and Ford releasing a special edition Mustang every chance it gets. However, its latest ‘Stang is no run-of-the-mill sticker or chrome package. This time it’s an updated “Bullitt” version.

Taking its name from the classic 1968 Steve McQueen film Bullitt, the new Mustang pays homage to the original fastback.

Clad in Highlander Green with black Torq-Thrust-style wheels it captures the essence of the original. Couple that with the retro-inspired looks of the Mustang and it’s even more of a winning combination.

This isn’t the first time Ford has offered a Bullitt Mustang either. In 2001, it offered the Bullitt package on the “New Edge”Mustang GT. Then in 2008, Ford once again revived the nameplate with the retro-styled fifth-gen model. Both cars used a variation of the old 4.6-liter modular V8.

Now for the 50th anniversary of the film, Ford seems to have nailed it. Combining all the comforts of a loaded Mustang GT with all the retro styling cues of the GT-390 from the film, it just works.  

Besides the paint and wheels, this new Bullitt Mustang gets several other unique features to set it apart.

The engine is still the standard 5.0-liter but does get a little bump in power. A base Mustang GT turns out 460hp, while the Bullitt is good for at least 475 ponies. The 15hp bump comes from some optimization with the engine. An Open Air Induction System, GT350 manifold, and larger 87mm throttle bodies all contribute to the boost.

To give it a signature sound, it gets an active exhaust. Also with new Black NitroPlate tips, it looks as good as it sounds.

The interior gets all the standard kit you expect on a top-of-the-line Mustang too: heated seats, large LCD display, and leather all around.

There are a few unique features too. The shifter knob is a white cueball, which is in the same style as the one from McQueen’s car. Also, the startup sequence replaces the pony logo with images of the car.

To introduce the Bullitt Mustang, Ford made a short film starring McQueen’s granddaughter, Molly.

During the film, Molly races a not-so-subtle black Charger through a parking structure to get one of the last remaining spots. It’s slightly cheesy, but all in good fun at the same time — especially when the Mustang “jumps”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OW60y2x3x0w

 

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