Hey guys! Let's dive deep into one of the most iconic and sought-after cars in automotive history: the 1967 Mustang Shelby GT500 Eleanor. This isn't just any classic car; it's a symbol of American muscle, design ingenuity, and movie magic. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast, a collector, or just someone who appreciates automotive beauty, the Eleanor GT500 has a special place in our hearts. Let’s explore what makes this car so legendary, from its origins and specs to its cultural impact and how you might get your hands on one.

The Origin of a Legend

The 1967 Shelby GT500 Eleanor started life as a regular 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback. Carroll Shelby, the legendary automotive designer and racer, transformed it into something extraordinary. In 1967, Shelby American modified the Mustangs to create high-performance machines that would dominate both the streets and the racetrack. The GT500 was the pinnacle of this transformation, packing a powerful engine and aggressive styling that set it apart from its contemporaries. The Eleanor variant, however, gained its fame much later.

The "Eleanor" name comes from the 2000 remake of the movie Gone in 60 Seconds. In the film, Eleanor was the code name for a highly desirable 1967 Shelby GT500, the last car that Nicolas Cage's character had to steal. The movie car, customized by Chip Foose, wasn't a genuine Shelby-built GT500 but a modified Mustang Fastback made to resemble one. But who cares, it captured the imagination of car lovers worldwide.

The Transformation

The transformation into Eleanor wasn't just about slapping on a new coat of paint. It involved a comprehensive redesign and enhancement of the original Mustang. Chip Foose gave the car a distinct look that blended classic Mustang styling with modern design elements. The body kit included flared wheel arches, side skirts, and a unique hood, making it instantly recognizable. This design wasn't just for looks; it enhanced the car's aerodynamics and gave it an aggressive, muscular stance.

Why the Hype?

The hype around the Eleanor GT500 is multifaceted. Firstly, the car represents the golden age of American muscle cars, known for their raw power and unapologetic design. Secondly, its appearance in Gone in 60 Seconds cemented its status as a pop culture icon. The movie portrayed Eleanor as the ultimate prize, a car so desirable that it was worth risking everything to obtain. Finally, the combination of Shelby's performance pedigree and Foose's design genius created a vehicle that is both beautiful and powerful. This unique blend of history, performance, and aesthetics makes the Eleanor GT500 a true automotive legend.

Key Features and Specifications

The 1967 Shelby GT500 Eleanor is more than just a pretty face. It's packed with performance features that make it a true muscle car. While the movie car wasn't an original Shelby, replicas and continuation models often incorporate high-performance components to match the Eleanor's aggressive appearance. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this car tick:

Engine and Performance

Original 1967 GT500s came with a 428 cubic inch (7.0L) Ford Cobra FE V8 engine. This engine was rated at 355 horsepower, though many believe the actual output was significantly higher. However, Eleanor replicas and restomods (restored and modified classics) often feature even more powerful engines. Common upgrades include:

• Ford Performance Crate Engines: Modern crate engines can deliver upwards of 500 horsepower, offering a significant performance boost over the original. These engines often feature updated technology like fuel injection and electronic ignition for improved reliability and efficiency.
• Superchargers: Adding a supercharger can push the horsepower even higher, creating a true tire-shredding machine. Supercharged Eleanor replicas can easily produce 600+ horsepower.
• Fuel Injection: Swapping the original carburetor for a fuel injection system improves fuel efficiency and throttle response. Modern EFI systems can be tuned for optimal performance, making the car more drivable in various conditions.

Transmission

The original GT500 came with either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. Eleanor replicas often feature upgraded transmissions to handle the increased power. Common upgrades include:

• Five or Six-Speed Manual Transmissions: These modern transmissions offer smoother shifting and better gear ratios for improved acceleration and top speed.
• Automatic Overdrive Transmissions: Automatic transmissions with overdrive provide a more comfortable driving experience, especially on the highway. They also improve fuel efficiency.

Suspension and Brakes

To handle the increased power and improve handling, Eleanor replicas typically feature upgraded suspension and brake components. These upgrades include:

• Coilover Suspension: Coilover systems allow for adjustable ride height and damping, providing a more customized and controlled driving experience.
• Tubular Control Arms: These lightweight control arms improve suspension geometry and reduce unsprung weight, enhancing handling.
• Disc Brakes: Upgrading to disc brakes on all four wheels provides significantly improved stopping power compared to the original drum brakes. Many Eleanor replicas feature large diameter rotors and multi-piston calipers for maximum braking performance.

Exterior and Interior

The exterior of the Eleanor GT500 is what makes it instantly recognizable. The body kit, designed by Chip Foose, includes:

• Flared Wheel Arches: These give the car a wider, more aggressive stance and accommodate larger wheels and tires.
• Side Skirts: These enhance the car's aerodynamics and give it a lower, sleeker profile.
• Unique Hood: The hood features a distinctive scoop and vents, adding to the car's aggressive look.
• Sequential Taillights: A signature Mustang design element, the sequential taillights add a touch of retro cool.

The interior of Eleanor replicas can vary widely, from faithful recreations of the original GT500 interior to modern, customized designs. Common upgrades include:

• Sport Seats: These provide better support and comfort than the original seats, especially during spirited driving.
• Custom Gauges: Modern gauges provide accurate and easy-to-read information about the engine's performance.
• Air Conditioning: A must-have for modern drivers, air conditioning makes the car more comfortable to drive in hot weather.
• Premium Sound System: A high-quality sound system enhances the driving experience.

The Eleanor in Pop Culture

The 1967 Shelby GT500 Eleanor transcended its status as a mere car and became a cultural phenomenon, largely due to its prominent role in the Gone in 60 Seconds film. The movie wasn't just a car chase flick; it was a love letter to the automobile, with Eleanor representing the ultimate automotive prize. Here’s how the Eleanor GT500 cemented its place in pop culture:

The Movie Effect

Gone in 60 Seconds showcased Eleanor as the elusive dream car, elevating its status to near-mythical proportions. The car’s unique design, combined with its powerful performance, made it an instant hit with moviegoers. The film's success led to a surge in demand for Eleanor replicas and cemented its place in automotive history. The movie highlighted:

• The Thrill of the Chase: Eleanor was the car that everyone wanted but no one could easily get, adding to its allure.
• Visual Appeal: The car's stunning appearance made it a star in its own right.
• Iconic Status: The movie turned Eleanor into a symbol of automotive passion and desire.

Beyond the Screen

Eleanor's influence extends far beyond the silver screen. It has inspired countless replicas, restomods, and tributes. Car shows and automotive events frequently feature Eleanor replicas, drawing crowds of admirers. The car has also appeared in video games, music videos, and other forms of media, further solidifying its place in popular culture.

A Symbol of Automotive Passion

The Eleanor GT500 represents more than just a car; it symbolizes the passion and dedication of car enthusiasts worldwide. It embodies the spirit of American muscle and the ingenuity of automotive design. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to capture the imagination of generations.

How to Get Your Own Eleanor

Dreaming of owning your very own 1967 Shelby GT500 Eleanor? While acquiring an original Shelby GT500 is a rare and expensive endeavor, there are several ways to bring the Eleanor dream to life:

Building a Replica

Building a replica is a popular option for those who want the Eleanor look without the hefty price tag of an original Shelby. This involves starting with a 1967-1968 Ford Mustang Fastback and modifying it to resemble the Eleanor GT500. Here are the steps involved:

1. Acquire a Mustang Fastback: Find a solid, rust-free Mustang Fastback as the base for your project. The better the condition of the donor car, the easier and more cost-effective the build will be.
2. Purchase an Eleanor Body Kit: Several companies offer Eleanor body kits that include the flared wheel arches, side skirts, hood, and other unique styling elements. Choose a high-quality kit that is made from durable materials and fits well.
3. Upgrade the Mechanical Components: To truly capture the Eleanor spirit, upgrade the engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes. Consider installing a Ford Performance crate engine, a modern transmission, and a performance suspension system.
4. Customize the Interior: Recreate the Eleanor interior with sport seats, custom gauges, and other upgrades. Add modern conveniences like air conditioning and a premium sound system for a more comfortable driving experience.
5. Paint and Finish: Choose the correct Pepper Gray Metallic paint color and apply the black racing stripes to complete the Eleanor look.

Buying a Turnkey Eleanor

Several companies specialize in building turnkey Eleanor replicas. These cars are fully assembled and ready to drive, offering a convenient option for those who don't want to tackle a build project. While turnkey Eleanors are more expensive than building a replica yourself, they offer peace of mind and guaranteed quality.

Restomod Options

Another option is to find a restomodded Eleanor. Restomods combine classic styling with modern technology, offering the best of both worlds. These cars typically feature upgraded engines, transmissions, suspensions, and brakes, along with modern amenities like air conditioning and premium sound systems.

Cost Considerations

The cost of acquiring an Eleanor can vary widely depending on the route you choose. Building a replica can range from $50,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on the quality of the components and the level of customization. Turnkey Eleanors can cost anywhere from $150,000 to $300,000 or more. Restomodded Eleanors typically fall somewhere in between.

Conclusion

The 1967 Shelby GT500 Eleanor is more than just a car; it's a symbol of automotive passion, design excellence, and the magic of cinema. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates automotive beauty, the Eleanor GT500 is sure to capture your imagination. Its unique blend of classic styling, powerful performance, and pop culture appeal makes it a true automotive legend. So go ahead, dream big, and maybe one day you'll be cruising down the road in your very own Eleanor. Keep the passion alive, guys!"