Few movie cars are as instantly recognizable as the Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT driven by Steve McQueen in Bullitt. Unsurprisingly, it has inspired countless recreations over the decades, ranging from simple paint-and-wheel conversions to seriously expensive builds.
This particular 1968 Mustang Fastback sits firmly toward the latter end of that spectrum. Offered by Vanguard Motor Sales, it has undergone a complete rotisserie restoration and combines the famous Bullitt appearance with several upgrades aimed at making it considerably nicer to drive.
It certainly looks the part, finished in Highland Green with American Racing wheels, blackwall tires, and a blacked-out rear panel. Look beneath the familiar styling, however, and you’ll find a Mustang that isn’t completely faithful to McQueen’s movie car.
That shouldn’t necessarily be considered a drawback. With a five-speed manual, air conditioning, and several modernized components, this recreation was clearly built to be enjoyed rather than simply parked and admired.
There’s A 390 V8 Under The Hood
Vanguard Motor Sales says the Mustang is powered by a Ford 390-cubic-inch FE V8 fitted with an aluminum intake and Holley four-barrel carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheels through a Tremec five-speed manual and a Positraction-style rear end with 3.55:1 gearing.
The mechanical upgrades also include power steering, power brakes with front discs and aftermarket air conditioning. An electric-choke setup and modern radial tires disguised with a period-style appearance should make it friendlier to use than an entirely original 1968 Mustang.
The Restoration Went Far Beyond The Paint
According to Vanguard, the Mustang received a complete rotisserie restoration with considerable attention paid underneath. It has a new fuel tank, exhaust system, driveshaft, brake and fuel lines, suspension components, and assorted hardware.
The exhaust uses Borla mufflers and incorporates electric cutouts for those occasions when the 390 needs to make its presence particularly obvious. Vanguard’s video also shows the restored floors, rear axle housing, and suspension hardware in detail.
Classic Inside, With A Few Modern Conveniences
The black cabin still has the general atmosphere of a late-1960s Mustang, including bucket seats, a floor shifter, and a three-spoke steering wheel. Wood-effect dashboard trim and a fold-down rear seat further preserve the period appearance.
There are some discreet updates, including replacement gauges positioned in the factory locations and an aftermarket radio styled to blend into the dashboard. The trunk has also been fully finished as part of the restoration.
Bullitt Style Comes At A Price
This isn’t presented as the actual Bullitt Mustang, of course, but as a recreation inspired by the legendary movie car. Vanguard Motor Sales currently has it listed for $179,900.
That’s serious money for a Mustang tribute, although this one is a comprehensively restored car featuring a proper 390 FE V8, along with some thoughtful usability upgrades. For someone who has always wanted McQueen’s Mustang without paying genuine movie-car money, it certainly makes a convincing case.