The Legendary 1968 Ford Mustang GT from Bullitt
The journey of the iconic 1968 Ford Mustang GT, made famous by its role in the detective movie Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen, has been remarkable. Initially appearing in high-octane scenes set in San Francisco, this Highland Green fastback became a cherished piece of automotive history.
A Sales History Like No Other
After filming wrapped, the Mustang was sold to Warner Bros employee Robert Ross and subsequently had a colorful ownership history. Within a few years, it ended up with the detective Robert Kiernan, hiding away in New Jersey until it resurfaced decades later, much to everyone’s surprise.
The Mustang was sold at a Mecum auction, achieving a staggering price of $3.74 million, making it the highest sale price of any Mustang at public auction. This sale stirred much conversation, especially considering that Kiernan had long resisted numerous offers, even from the legendary McQueen himself.
The Emotional Connection
In the late 1970s, McQueen expressed his desire to reclaim the Mustang, which had become iconic through his driving in Bullitt. He even offered another car in exchange, but Kiernan wasn’t willing to part with it.
As time passed, the 1980s rolled into the 2000s, and Mustang enthusiasts continued to speculate about the car’s whereabouts. The Mustang remained hidden away until 2001, when Kiernan and his son, Sean, decided to restore it to running condition after the release of the new Bullitt edition of the Ford Mustang.
Restoration and Recognition
After Robert Kiernan’s passing in 2014, Sean finally managed to restore the Mustang. The car made headlines again in 2018 when displayed at the unveiling of the third-generation Ford Mustang Bullitt. Despite its rough condition, key features from its film days, like the camera mounts and custom exhaust system, still remained intact.
Moreover, the recent auction demonstrated how Steve McQueen’s name still significantly boosts the value of vehicles associated with him. Provenance plays a crucial role, as demonstrated by the high sale prices of cars previously owned by the actor.
The Future of the Bullitt Mustang
Today, the value of the Bullitt Mustang continues to inspire awe. Even though its twin was found in restoration, it lacks the significant history that this iconic vehicle possesses.
As experts and enthusiasts contemplate the Mustang’s future, it is evident that its legacy will endure, not only because of its cinematic fame but also due to the emotional stories attached to it.
