Ford Mustang Bullitt to Return Next Year

A rogue detective, a pair of hitmen, a couple of sports cars and a whole lot

of speed – these were the components that came together in the 1968 film, Bullitt. This was the film that set the bar for car chases in the film industry. Films like The Italian Job, Gone in 60 Seconds, and even modern-day movies such as Ronin, and The Bourne Trilogy all owe their fantastic car chases to this movie.

In 2001, Ford celebrated the release of the film with a limited production model of the Mustang, dressed up like the star of the flick. Though not a Shelby, the GT Coupe, painted in Dark Highland Green (or True Black) with retro five-spoke gunmetal alloy wheels and an exhaust system tweaked to mimic the sound of McQueen's chase car made for a reasonable modern day facsimile. This was a dream car for those that loved the movie, and for those that loved the Mustang, despite the fact that the car's 265 horsepower V8 was a fair ways down from the film car's 325 hp mill.

Seven years after its introductory run, Ford will be bringing the Bullitt back once again. This time, the car will look even closer to the original, thanks to the current Mustang's nostalgic styling. Subtle exterior modifications such as a new grille, and most likely a rear spoiler delete will keep the exterior looking clean, not to mention the classic wheels. Of course, it will be available in the legendary Highland Green metallic paint too.

Mechanically, the Bullitt will be more about handling than straight-line speed. Ford's Racing Power Pack increases the three-valve SOHC V8 engine's output to 312 horsepower from 300, while the sound of the engine will be all that more authentic thanks to an X-Pipe exhaust system. The car

also receives a 3.73:1 rear axle ratio.

Suspension-wise, the car receives upgraded springs and dampers which lower everything slightly. Beefier sway bars up front and in back should also help reduce body roll, which should come in handy when sneaking up and down city streets, and pursuing black Dodge Chargers.

All and all, these changes would be sure to make Steve McQueen proud.

Just like the last version, production of the new machine is going to be limited. Ford has earmarked a sum total of 7,700 units, with 700 going to Canada and the rest for the US, all of which will be built over a six month period. The car will be shown for the first time in Los Angeles later this month, and should be on the road by early next year.