1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback "Bullitt": A Closer Look at This Legendary Car

This Sunday on the show “Turbo” at 11:20 a.m., we simply can’t help but revisit one of the most legendary cars in automotive history: the famous 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback “Bullitt,” driven by Steve McQueen in the cult classic film *Bullitt*.

This Mustang isn't just a movie car. It's probably THE most iconic Mustang ever produced. Its Highland Green color, its raw, unpretentious look, and—above all—the legendary car chase through the streets of San Francisco have left an indelible mark on the history of automotive cinema.

Sold at a Mecum Auctions auction in Florida in January 2020, it fetched an incredible $3.4 million before fees—or about $3.74 million including commissions. That was an all-time record for a Mustang sold at auction at the time. 

What makes this car even more exceptional is its authenticity. Unlike many vehicles that have been overly restored, the Bullitt Mustang has remained virtually in its original condition, complete with its patina, signs of filming, and even some modifications made for the movie’s cameras. 

For decades, the car had disappeared from the public eye before reappearing in 2018 to mark the film’s 50th anniversary. In the meantime, it had remained in the Kiernan family since the 1970s—so much so that Steve McQueen himself had tried unsuccessfully to buy it back. 

This sale demonstrates just how certain cars transcend their status as mere vehicles: they become part of popular culture, blending cinema, history, and a passion for cars. The Bullitt Mustang embodies exactly that—an absolute symbol of American cool and the golden age of muscle cars.

BBullitt is much more than just a crime film: it has completely redefined modern car cinema.

Released in 1968, the film stars Lieutenant Frank Bullitt, played by Steve McQueen, a low-key, cool, and extremely charismatic police officer who stands in stark contrast to the classic Hollywood heroes of the time. McQueen was himself passionate about cars and motorcycles, which lends the film an incredible sense of realism in all the driving scenes.

But what really made Bullitt a legend was, of course, the nearly 10-minute car chase through the streets of San Francisco.
At the time, nothing quite as intense, fast-paced, and immersive had ever been filmed for the big screen.

In it, we see the legendary green Ford Mustang GT Fastback go head-to-head with a black Dodge Charger in a scene that has become an absolute classic in the world of car movies. What’s still impressive today:

Very few special effects, real cars racing at high speeds, on-board cameras that were revolutionary for the time, the raw sound of the engine with no music during the chase, and above all, an extremely realistic sense of speed. 

Steve McQueen wanted to drive himself in as many scenes as possible. Although some takes were shot by stunt driver Bud Ekins, McQueen actually appears behind the wheel in many close-up shots.

The Mustang in question wasn't anything special on paper, but it was precisely that understated look that created the legend. No spoilers, no racing stripes, no excessive chrome: a true "undercover" muscle car—brutal yet elegant.

The film was so successful that Ford Motor Company eventually created special “Bullitt” editions decades later, notably on the 2001, 2008, and 2019 Mustangs, all in that famous Highland Green color.

Even today, a great many filmmakers draw direct inspiration from Bullitt. 

Without this movie, films like *Ronin*, *Drive*, or even the *Fast & Furious* franchise
would likely not have the same approach to car scenes. 

The Bullitt Mustang remains one of the few vehicles that is instantly recognizable even to people who aren't car enthusiasts.

"More than just a Mustang, Steve McQueen's Bullitt has, over time, become a true symbol of freedom, power, and American car cinema."

FAST’NCLASSIC is offering for sale a true gem, “CONCOURS CONDITION” which has undergone a comprehensive, top-quality restoration—800 hours of work—and has been brought back to like-new condition by highly qualified specialists.

The icing on the cake is that we’ve added a full, state-of-the-art air conditioning system to ensure absolute comfort behind the wheel of this beauty.

The vehicle is in stock and available immediately, with a classic car registration certificate.

Treat yourself to more than just a car—treat yourself to a legend.

I won't say any more—just make an appointment!