We Need More Convertible ‘Eleanor’ Clones in Our Lives
Gone in 60 Seconds recreation does everything ‘wrong’ when it comes to mimicking famous movie car, yet it’s still awesome-looking.
There will always be that sect of enthusiasts that insist any replica, tribute, clone, restomod or recreation must be as close to original as possible. But why?
Sometimes, a different idea can simply be better than what everyone else has already done. In fact, we like how this 1968 Mustang from Leake Auction Company specifically does everything “wrong” when it comes to re-creating the famous “Eleanor” from the 2000 Jerry Bruckheimer film Gone in 60 Seconds: yellow paint, black triple stripes, convertible top, roll bar, etc. Yet, it’s still awesome-looking.
Power comes from a tried-and-true 351 V8 which is more than enough to go out and have fun with. Paired with a five-speed Tremec gearbox, it’ll even satisfy those who want to slam their own gears, too. In keeping with how cool this Mustang is, the engine bay is the subject of a wire tuck, so unlatching the hood pins is an enjoyable experience.
It’s also worth noting that the car overall looks to be put together very well. Interior customization may an acquired taste, but modern seats with carbon fiber accents work quite well. Gauges are arranged in a carbon fiber panel that spans the entire width of the dash, with vitals in front of the driver, and a quartet of additional dials in front of the passenger. Audio, including a touch-screen interface, hides neatly in front of the shifter. Externally, the Eleanor body kit looks exactly as you’d expect, except in yellow and black.
In all, this is one of those cars in your collection that you would actually drive more often. We think that’s far better than buying a car with the sole purpose of just storing it away and looking at it.
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