a quarter of a century Nicolas Cage stars as Randall “Memphis” Raines, a car thief who is tasked with stealing 50 cars in one night to save his brother’s life. Disappears after 60 seconds It hit the big screen on June 5, 2000, and became the highest-grossing movie on its opening weekend. It grossed $237.2 million at the box office and remains a favorite among car enthusiasts even today. Besides Cage, the other star of the show is undoubtedly a silver 1967 Ford Mustang.
The Mustang’s name was Eleanor, and “she” was a 1967 Shelby GT500, finished in gunmetal gray with contrasting black racing stripes. The Mustang stunt car was built by custom car designer Chip Foose and modified with a roll cage, heavy-duty seat belts, a kill switch and a special braking system. The movie’s actual hero car was sold at auction more than a decade ago (for over $1 million), but for movie fans on a tight budget, Eleanor’s replica is available and looks Very similar to real cars.
One such replica went up for auction on the Barrett-Jackson auction block in Scottsdale last October: The car was described as an “Eleanor Tribute,” and came with Accompanying certification documents, the final sale price was $220,000. Badges on the fenders attest to its tribute edition pedigree (documented by a company called Eleanor Licensing LLC). The car gets exterior updates like a billet grille, auxiliary lighting, a chin spoiler, side-exit exhaust tips, and an integrated rear spoiler, giving it the same aesthetic as the movie Mustang.
Under the hood is a 351ci Windsor V8 with aluminum heads, Edelbrock intake and ceramic-coated headers. A TREMEC 5-speed manual transmission and Ford 9-inch rear end send power to the rear wheels, and a set of Toyo tires wrap Halibrand-style 17-inch wheels for extra grip. A set of Wilwood disc brakes were added for safety and stability. Inside, an AutoMeter “Phantom” gauge provides insight into the vehicle’s vital signs, while a wood-frame steering wheel, center console and modern sound system provide some creature comforts in the cabin.
Click above to watch on the AutoHunter Cinema YouTube channel!
If you were a fan of Steve McQueen’s original “Gone in 60,” or a fan of Nicolas Cage’s follow-up films decades later, you’ll love watching this short video on AutoHunter’s YouTube channel, A Closer Look: A personal look at this special Shelby GT500.
Stay tuned for more action as we prepare for the Barrett-Jackson 2025 Scottsdale Auction, January 18-26. Tickets can be purchased at the AXS Online Box Office. This year’s listings include hundreds of specialty cars for sale without reserve.
Don’t forget your checkbook in case a special car catches your eye (and your heart!).
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