GT500 Shelby Eleanor: History, Specs, And Legacy

Introduction

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor is one of the most iconic and sought-after cars in American automotive history. A symbol of power, performance, and classic design, the Eleanor has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts for decades. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the history, specifications, and legacy of this legendary vehicle.

What is the GT500 Shelby Eleanor?

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor is a custom-built 1967 Ford Mustang fastback that was featured in the 2000 film "Gone in 60 Seconds." While not an original Shelby model, the Eleanor's unique design and on-screen presence have made it a cultural icon. The car is characterized by its sleek body kit, side-exit exhausts, and powerful engine.

History of the GT500 Shelby Eleanor

The Original "Gone in 60 Seconds" (1974)

The original "Gone in 60 Seconds" film, released in 1974, featured a yellow 1973 Ford Mustang Mach 1 as the primary vehicle. This movie is known for its extensive car chase scenes and helped to popularize the Mustang as a performance car.

The 2000 Remake

The 2000 remake of "Gone in 60 Seconds" introduced the Eleanor, a customized 1967 Ford Mustang fastback. Designed by Steve Stanford and built by Cinema Vehicle Services, the Eleanor was an instant hit with audiences. Its distinctive appearance and thrilling chase scenes made it a star in its own right.

Design and Production

Several Eleanor Mustangs were built for the 2000 film, each serving a specific purpose, such as close-up shots or stunt driving. The cars featured a custom body kit, including flared wheel arches, a unique hood, and side-exit exhausts. The interiors were also modified with performance gauges and custom seats. — Matlock Actor Fired: What Happened?

Key Features and Specifications

Engine and Performance

The Eleanor Mustangs built for the 2000 film were equipped with high-performance engines, typically Ford V8s. These engines produced upwards of 400 horsepower, providing the cars with impressive acceleration and top speed.

Exterior Design

The Eleanor's exterior design is one of its most recognizable features. The custom body kit includes:

• Flared wheel arches
• A unique hood with twin scoops
• Side-exit exhausts
• Custom front and rear fascias
• Fog lights

The cars were painted in a Pepper Gray Metallic finish with black racing stripes, adding to their aggressive appearance.

Interior Modifications

The interior of the Eleanor Mustangs was also customized to enhance their performance feel. Key modifications included: — Thursday Night Football: Time, Channel, And How To Watch

• Performance gauges
• Custom seats
• A wood-rimmed steering wheel
• A Hurst shifter

The Eleanor's Cultural Impact

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor has had a significant impact on car culture, inspiring countless replicas and tributes. Its appearance in "Gone in 60 Seconds" cemented its status as a dream car for many enthusiasts.

Replicas and Tributes

Due to the Eleanor's popularity, numerous companies and individuals have built replicas and tribute cars. These vehicles often feature similar styling cues, such as the body kit, paint scheme, and side-exit exhausts.

Auction Value

Original Eleanor Mustangs from the 2000 film have fetched high prices at auctions. Their rarity and iconic status make them highly desirable collectibles.

How to Build Your Own Eleanor

Building an Eleanor tribute car can be a challenging but rewarding project. Here are the basic steps involved:

1. Start with a 1967-1968 Ford Mustang Fastback: This is the ideal base for an Eleanor replica.
2. Install a Custom Body Kit: Several companies offer Eleanor-style body kits that include the flared wheel arches, hood, and fascias.
3. Upgrade the Engine: A high-performance Ford V8 engine will provide the necessary power and performance.
4. Add Side-Exit Exhausts: These are a signature feature of the Eleanor.
5. Paint the Car Pepper Gray Metallic: This is the iconic color of the Eleanor from "Gone in 60 Seconds."
6. Customize the Interior: Install performance gauges, custom seats, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel.

The Legacy of the GT500 Shelby Eleanor

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor remains a beloved icon in the automotive world. Its unique design, powerful performance, and starring role in "Gone in 60 Seconds" have ensured its place in history. Whether you're a fan of classic Mustangs or high-performance cars, the Eleanor is sure to impress.

FAQ Section

What is the GT500 Shelby Eleanor?

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor is a custom-built 1967 Ford Mustang fastback featured in the 2000 film "Gone in 60 Seconds."

How many Eleanor Mustangs were built for the movie?

Several Eleanor Mustangs were built for the 2000 film, each serving a specific purpose, such as close-up shots or stunt driving.

What engine did the Eleanor Mustangs have?

The Eleanor Mustangs were typically equipped with high-performance Ford V8 engines producing upwards of 400 horsepower.

What is the paint color of the Eleanor?

The Eleanor is painted in a Pepper Gray Metallic finish with black racing stripes.

Can I buy an original Eleanor Mustang?

Original Eleanor Mustangs from the 2000 film are rare and can fetch high prices at auctions.

How can I build my own Eleanor replica?

You can build an Eleanor replica by starting with a 1967-1968 Ford Mustang fastback, installing a custom body kit, upgrading the engine, and customizing the interior. — Dodgers Game Today: Time, TV, & How To Watch

Why is the GT500 Shelby Eleanor so popular?

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor is popular due to its unique design, powerful performance, and starring role in "Gone in 60 Seconds."

Conclusion

The GT500 Shelby Eleanor is more than just a car; it's a symbol of American muscle and automotive artistry. Its enduring appeal and iconic status make it a true legend in the world of classic cars. Whether you dream of owning one or simply admire its beauty, the Eleanor will continue to captivate car enthusiasts for generations to come.