The Elusive “Eleanor”: Decoding the Mustang of Gone in 60 Seconds

The answer to “What was the Mustang called in Gone in 60 Seconds?” depends entirely on which version of the film you’re referring to. In the original 1974 film, “Eleanor” was the code name given to a 1971 Ford Mustang cleverly disguised as a 1973 model. However, it’s the 2000 remake starring Nicolas Cage that cemented “Eleanor” in automotive history, referring to a stunningly modified 1967 Shelby GT500.

Eleanor: A Tale of Two Mustangs

While both films feature a Mustang as the coveted “Eleanor,” the specifics differ greatly. Let’s dive into the details of each:

The 1974 Original: A Yellow Distraction

H.B. “Toby” Halicki’s 1974 Gone in 60 Seconds is notorious for its epic car chase scene, featuring over 90 cars destroyed. The original “Eleanor” was a yellow 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1, restyled to resemble a 1973 Mustang. This choice was likely for aesthetic reasons, updating the car’s appearance. The fact that one Mustang was painted yellow speaks to how Mustangs of that era held a special place in the car industry.

The 2000 Remake: The Grey Goddess

The 2000 Gone in 60 Seconds introduced a new generation to “Eleanor,” this time a customized 1967 Shelby GT500. This version, painted in a striking Dupont Pepper Grey, was a collaborative effort by Steve Stanford (design) and Chip Foose (body kit). This Eleanor is easily the more iconic and sought-after version, leading to countless replicas and tribute cars.

The Allure of Eleanor: Why the Mustang Remains a Legend

The “Eleanor” Mustang has become more than just a movie car; it’s a cultural icon. Several factors contribute to its enduring popularity:

• Classic Design: The 1967 Shelby GT500 is already a beautiful car, and the modifications enhance its aggressive lines and performance.
• Movie Star Power: Being featured prominently in a successful action movie significantly boosted its visibility and desirability.
• Exclusivity: Replicas are common, but genuine “Eleanor” Mustangs from the 2000 film are rare and valuable.
• The “Cool” Factor: The association with Nicolas Cage’s character and the thrill of the heist adds to the car’s “cool” factor.

Whether you’re a fan of the original or the remake, there’s no denying the power and appeal of the “Eleanor” Mustang. Its status as a pop culture icon remains firmly intact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Eleanor” and Mustangs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about “Eleanor” Mustangs and their place in automotive history:

Q1: How many “Eleanor” Mustangs were built for the 2000 movie?

A: Eleven “Eleanor” Mustangs were built for the 2000 Gone in 60 Seconds. However, only a few were used for stunt work, while others were used for close-up shots and marketing purposes.

Q2: How many of the original “Eleanor” Mustangs from the 2000 movie still exist?

A: It’s believed that only three of the original “Eleanor” Mustangs used in filming the 2000 movie are still in existence today.

Q3: What is the average price of a 1967 Shelby GT500 “Eleanor” tribute edition?

A: The average sale price of a Ford Shelby Mustang Eleanor Tribute Edition – 1st Gen is $224,482.

Q4: How much horsepower did the “Eleanor” Mustang in the 2000 movie have?

A: The “Eleanor” Mustangs used in the 2000 movie typically featured a Ford Performance 351-cubic inch V-8 engine producing around 400 horsepower.

Q5: Were the Mustangs in Gone in 60 Seconds really destroyed during filming?

A: Yes, the 1974 Gone in 60 Seconds famously destroyed a total of 127 vehicles during filming, making it a record-breaking feat at the time. The 2000 remake also involved some car crashes, but to a lesser extent.

Q6: What other classic cars are popular from movies?

A: Besides “Eleanor,” other notable movie cars include the 1969 Dodge Charger R/T from The Fast and the Furious, John Wick’s 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1, and the 1968 Ford Mustang GT from Bullitt.

Q7: How can I learn more about car design and automotive history?

A: Websites like GamesLearningSociety.org, which explores the intersection of games and learning, can provide insights into design principles applicable to various fields, including automotive design. You can visit the Games Learning Society to further your knowledge.

Q8: Is it legal to build a replica of the “Eleanor” Mustang from the 2000 movie?

A: The copyright restrictions that previously prevented people from building replicas of the 2000 movie’s “Eleanor” Mustang have been lifted.

Q9: What year Mustang is generally considered the most popular?

A: Several Mustang years are highly popular, including the 1965 Shelby GT350, the 1967 Shelby GT500, and the 1969 Boss 429.

Q10: What makes the 1967 Mustang so iconic?

A: The 1967 Mustang was the first major redesign of the model since its initial launch, featuring updated styling and larger engine options.

Q11: Who designed the “Eleanor” Mustang for the 2000 movie?

A: Steve Stanford designed the Eleanor Mustang while Chip Foose created the body kit for the movie 2000.

Q12: Is there a sequel to the original Gone in 60 Seconds (1974)?

A: A sequel, Gone in 60 Seconds 2, was in development but was never completed due to the death of H.B. “Toby” Halicki.

Q13: What is the rarest Mustang ever made?

A: The 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake is considered one of the rarest Mustangs ever made, with only one original ever produced.

Q14: What was the original MSRP for a 1967 Shelby GT500?

A: The original MSRP for a 1967 Shelby GT500 was around $4,395, which is significantly less than its value today.

Q15: Where can I see a real “Eleanor” Mustang?

A: Due to their rarity and value, “Eleanor” Mustangs are primarily found in private collections or occasionally displayed at automotive museums and auctions.