The quest to uncover What Car Is Eleanor has captivated car enthusiasts for years, and CARS.EDU.VN is here to provide the definitive answer. This legendary vehicle, a symbol of cinematic history and automotive excellence, is more than just a movie prop; it represents a fusion of design, power, and unforgettable on-screen presence. Explore the details that make the Eleanor Mustang a timeless icon, delve into the specifics of its engine, design modifications, and its lasting impact on car culture. Discover also valuable tips on maintaining and appreciating classic cars from CARS.EDU.VN.
1. The Origin of Eleanor: From Screen to Reality
Eleanor is not just any car; it’s the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 from the 2000 remake of Gone in 60 Seconds. This movie elevated the classic muscle car to new heights, embedding it in the hearts of car lovers and movie buffs alike. But what makes Eleanor so special?
1.1. The Remake That Revived a Legend
The Gone in 60 Seconds remake was more than just a heist movie; it was a love letter to automobiles. Nicolas Cage’s character, Memphis Raines, had to steal 50 cars in one night, and Eleanor was the elusive prize. The film showcased her beauty, power, and the thrill of the chase, creating a lasting impression on viewers. The allure of Eleanor stems from the adrenaline-pumping sequences and the car’s undeniable charm.
1.2. Steve Stanford and Chip Foose: The Dream Team Behind the Design
The stunning design of Eleanor wasn’t accidental. It was the brainchild of Steve Stanford, who initially sketched the concept, and Chip Foose, who refined and brought it to life. Together, they transformed a classic Mustang into a bespoke masterpiece. Their collaboration ensured that Eleanor was not only visually striking but also functional for the intense driving scenes in the movie. Foose’s expertise in automotive design and Stanford’s artistic vision combined to create an unforgettable vehicle.
2. Eleanor’s Unique Design Elements: A Closer Look
Eleanor’s design is a blend of classic Mustang aesthetics and custom modifications that make her stand out. From the aggressive body kit to the distinctive paint job, every detail was carefully considered to create a car that’s both beautiful and intimidating.
2.1. The Body Kit: Aggression Meets Elegance
The body kit is one of the most noticeable features of Eleanor. It includes flared wheel arches, side skirts, and a custom front bumper with integrated fog lights. These elements give the car a wider, more aggressive stance while maintaining the classic Mustang’s elegant lines. The design enhances the car’s aerodynamics and adds to its muscular appearance.
2.2. The Paint Job: Gun Metal Grey with Black Stripes
Eleanor’s gun metal grey paint, accented by dual black racing stripes, is iconic. This color scheme enhances the car’s muscular lines and gives it a stealthy, menacing look. The stripes run the length of the car, emphasizing its speed and power. The paint job is not just aesthetically pleasing; it also contributes to the car’s overall mystique.
2.3. The Wheels and Tires: Performance Ready
Eleanor’s wheels and tires were chosen for both their appearance and performance. The wheels are custom-made, often attributed to Boyd Coddington, and complement the car’s overall design. The high-performance tires provide excellent grip, essential for the movie’s high-speed chases.
2.4. The Hood: A Power Bulge with a Purpose
The hood of Eleanor features a prominent power bulge, hinting at the powerful engine beneath. This design element not only looks aggressive but also provides extra clearance for the engine components. The hood is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, contributing to the car’s overall muscular appearance.
2.5. The Interior: Racing-Inspired Cockpit
The interior of Eleanor is designed to be functional and driver-focused. It features racing-style seats, a custom steering wheel, and performance gauges. The interior is designed to provide the driver with maximum control and feedback, essential for high-speed driving. The racing-inspired cockpit adds to the car’s overall performance feel.
3. Under the Hood: The Power Within Eleanor
Eleanor’s beauty is more than skin deep. Under the hood lies a powerful engine that matches her aggressive looks. The engine is a key component of Eleanor’s character, providing the performance needed for her on-screen exploits.
3.1. The Engine: A Ford Racing Crate Engine
The Eleanor in the movie featured a 5.8-liter (351 cubic inch) Ford Racing crate engine. This engine was capable of producing around 400 horsepower, providing ample power for high-speed chases and thrilling maneuvers. The engine’s performance was critical to Eleanor’s role in the movie, allowing her to keep up with the demands of the script.
3.2. The Transmission: Four-Speed Manual
Eleanor was equipped with a four-speed manual transmission, giving the driver complete control over the car’s power. The manual transmission added to the driving experience, making it more engaging and visceral. The choice of a manual transmission was in line with the car’s performance-oriented design.
3.3. Performance Upgrades: Enhancing Eleanor’s Capabilities
In addition to the powerful engine, Eleanor also featured several performance upgrades, including improved suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. These upgrades enhanced the car’s handling, stopping power, and overall performance. The performance upgrades were essential to ensuring that Eleanor could perform the stunts and maneuvers required by the movie.
4. The Legacy of Eleanor: More Than Just a Movie Car
Eleanor is more than just a car from a movie; she’s a cultural icon. Her image has been reproduced on posters, t-shirts, and models, and she’s inspired countless car enthusiasts to build their own versions of the famous Mustang.
4.1. Eleanor’s Impact on Car Culture
Eleanor has had a significant impact on car culture, inspiring a new generation of enthusiasts to appreciate classic muscle cars. Her image has been widely circulated, making her one of the most recognizable movie cars of all time. Eleanor’s influence can be seen in custom car builds and restorations around the world.
4.2. Replicas and Tributes: Keeping the Dream Alive
Due to Eleanor’s popularity, several companies have started producing replicas of the car. These replicas allow enthusiasts to own a piece of movie history without having to pay the exorbitant price of an original Eleanor. Fusion Motor Company, for example, offers made-to-order replicas of Eleanor, allowing customers to customize their own version of the iconic Mustang.
4.3. Eleanor in Auctions: A Collector’s Dream
Original Eleanor Mustangs from the movie have become highly sought-after collector’s items. These cars often fetch high prices at auctions, reflecting their historical significance and cultural value. In 2013, one of the original Eleanor Mustangs used in the movie sold for $1 million at auction, demonstrating the car’s enduring appeal.
5. Caring for a Classic: Tips from CARS.EDU.VN
Owning a classic car like Eleanor requires special care and attention. At CARS.EDU.VN, we offer expert advice on maintaining and preserving classic vehicles. Here are some essential tips to keep your classic car in top condition:
5.1. Regular Maintenance: The Key to Longevity
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your classic car running smoothly. This includes changing the oil, checking the fluids, and inspecting the brakes and tires. Regular maintenance can prevent small problems from turning into major repairs.
5.2. Proper Storage: Protecting Your Investment
Proper storage is essential for protecting your classic car from the elements. Store your car in a dry, covered location to prevent rust and corrosion. Use a car cover to protect the paint from scratches and fading.
5.3. Detailing: Keeping Your Car Looking Its Best
Detailing your classic car can help maintain its appearance and value. Wash and wax the car regularly to protect the paint. Clean the interior to prevent wear and tear. Detailing can make your classic car look like new.
5.4. Finding the Right Mechanic: Expertise Matters
Finding a mechanic who specializes in classic cars is essential. These mechanics have the knowledge and experience to properly diagnose and repair vintage vehicles. Look for a mechanic with a proven track record and positive reviews.
5.5. Parts and Restoration: Sourcing Authentic Components
When restoring a classic car, sourcing authentic parts is crucial. Use original or reproduction parts to maintain the car’s authenticity and value. Research reputable suppliers and vendors to ensure you’re getting high-quality components.
6. The Emotional Connection: Why We Love Eleanor
Eleanor is more than just a car; she’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the thrill of the open road. Her image evokes strong emotions in car enthusiasts and movie fans alike.
6.1. Nostalgia: A Trip Down Memory Lane
For many, Eleanor represents a nostalgic connection to the past. She embodies the golden age of muscle cars and the excitement of classic Hollywood cinema. Eleanor reminds us of a simpler time when cars were more than just transportation; they were symbols of individuality and personal expression.
6.2. Inspiration: Fueling the Passion for Cars
Eleanor inspires car enthusiasts to pursue their passion for automobiles. She demonstrates the beauty and potential of classic cars, motivating people to restore, customize, and appreciate these vehicles. Eleanor encourages us to embrace our love of cars and to share that passion with others.
6.3. Community: Sharing the Love of Eleanor
Eleanor brings people together through a shared love of cars. Car clubs, online forums, and enthusiast groups provide opportunities for people to connect and share their passion for Eleanor and other classic vehicles. These communities foster a sense of camaraderie and provide support for those who are restoring or maintaining classic cars.
7. Eleanor’s Influence on Modern Automotive Design
Eleanor’s design has influenced modern automotive design, with many automakers incorporating elements of her styling into their vehicles. Her aggressive lines, muscular stance, and distinctive paint scheme have inspired designers to create cars that are both visually striking and performance-oriented.
7.1. Modern Muscle Cars: A Nod to the Past
Modern muscle cars, such as the Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Chevrolet Camaro, owe a debt to Eleanor. These cars incorporate elements of Eleanor’s design, such as flared wheel arches, aggressive front fascias, and racing stripes. Modern muscle cars pay homage to the past while offering modern performance and technology.
7.2. Custom Car Builds: Inspired by Eleanor
Eleanor has inspired countless custom car builds, with enthusiasts creating their own versions of the iconic Mustang. These custom builds often incorporate elements of Eleanor’s design, such as the body kit, paint scheme, and performance upgrades. Custom car builders use Eleanor as a starting point, adding their own unique touches to create one-of-a-kind vehicles.
7.3. Automotive Accessories: Capturing Eleanor’s Style
Automotive accessories, such as body kits, wheels, and decals, allow enthusiasts to capture Eleanor’s style on their own vehicles. These accessories enable car owners to customize their cars to resemble Eleanor, even if they don’t own a classic Mustang. The availability of these accessories demonstrates Eleanor’s enduring popularity and influence on car culture.
8. Where to See Eleanor: Museums and Car Shows
If you want to see Eleanor in person, there are several opportunities to do so. Original Eleanor Mustangs have been displayed in museums and car shows around the world, allowing enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the iconic vehicle.
8.1. Automotive Museums: A Tribute to Automotive History
Automotive museums often feature exhibits dedicated to movie cars, including Eleanor. These exhibits provide a historical context for the car and showcase its significance in popular culture. Automotive museums offer a chance to learn about the history of Eleanor and to appreciate her beauty and engineering.
8.2. Car Shows: Celebrating Automotive Excellence
Car shows are another great place to see Eleanor. Enthusiasts often bring their Eleanor replicas to car shows, allowing attendees to admire the cars and talk to their owners. Car shows provide a platform for celebrating automotive excellence and for sharing a passion for cars.
8.3. Auctions: Witnessing Automotive History
Auctions are a unique opportunity to witness automotive history in the making. Original Eleanor Mustangs have been auctioned off at high prices, reflecting their historical significance and cultural value. Attending an auction can be an exciting experience, especially if you have a chance to see Eleanor cross the auction block.
9. The Future of Eleanor: Enduring Icon
Eleanor’s legacy is secure. She will continue to inspire car enthusiasts and movie fans for generations to come. Her image will continue to be reproduced on posters, t-shirts, and models, and her story will continue to be told in books, movies, and documentaries.
9.1. Preserving Eleanor’s Legacy
Preserving Eleanor’s legacy is essential for ensuring that future generations can appreciate her beauty and significance. Car clubs, enthusiast groups, and automotive museums play a crucial role in preserving Eleanor’s legacy by restoring, maintaining, and showcasing original Eleanor Mustangs.
9.2. Continuing the Story
The story of Eleanor will continue to be told through books, movies, and documentaries. These media outlets provide opportunities to explore Eleanor’s history, design, and impact on car culture. By continuing to tell Eleanor’s story, we can ensure that her legacy lives on.
9.3. Embracing the Passion
Embracing the passion for Eleanor is essential for keeping her legacy alive. Car enthusiasts, movie fans, and custom car builders all contribute to Eleanor’s enduring appeal. By embracing our passion for Eleanor, we can ensure that she remains a beloved icon for generations to come.
10. Get Expert Car Care Advice at CARS.EDU.VN
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FAQ About Eleanor
Here are some frequently asked questions about Eleanor, the iconic 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 from Gone in 60 Seconds:
1. What year is the Eleanor Mustang?
Eleanor is a modified 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.
2. How many Eleanor Mustangs were made for the movie?
Eleven cars were made for the movie, but only a few were actual driving cars. The rest were used for static shots and stunts.
3. Who designed Eleanor?
Steve Stanford initially sketched the concept, and Chip Foose refined and brought it to life.
4. How much did the original Eleanor Mustang sell for?
In 2013, one of the original Eleanor Mustangs used in the movie sold for $1 million at auction.
5. What engine did Eleanor have in the movie?
Eleanor featured a 5.8-liter (351 cubic inch) Ford Racing crate engine, producing around 400 horsepower.
6. Can I buy an Eleanor Mustang?
Original Eleanor Mustangs are rare and expensive, but several companies offer replicas for sale.
7. What is so special about Eleanor?
Eleanor is special because of her unique design, powerful engine, and iconic status as a movie car.
8. What color is Eleanor?
Eleanor is painted gun metal grey with dual black racing stripes.
9. Where can I see Eleanor?
You may be able to see Eleanor at automotive museums, car shows, and auctions.
10. How can I maintain a classic car like Eleanor?
Regular maintenance, proper storage, detailing, and finding the right mechanic are essential for maintaining a classic car.
