Gone in 60 Seconds 'Eleanor' Mustang sells for $1 million at auction
The custom 1967 Ford Mustang GT500, built for the 2000 film and driven by Nicolas Cage, was sold to an anonymous buyer for $1 million in May 2013.
A custom-built 1967 Ford Mustang GT500, famously known as 'Eleanor' from the 2000 film Gone in 60 Seconds, was sold at auction for $1 million in May 2013. The car, which played a central role alongside Nicolas Cage in the blockbuster, was purchased by a buyer who has chosen to remain anonymous. This sale highlights Eleanor’s position as one of the most valuable and recognisable film cars ever to cross the auction block.
Eleanor Mustang from Gone in 60 Seconds Fetches $1 Million at Auction
Origin and Design of Eleanor
For the 2000 remake of Gone in 60 Seconds, a series of custom Mustangs were created to portray Eleanor. Cinema Vehicle Services, with the assistance of renowned car designer Chip Foose, developed a unique look for the car. The design merged classic Shelby GT500 styling cues with modernised bodywork, including distinctive paintwork, centrally-mounted driving lights, and aggressive body modifications. These features contributed to Eleanor’s standout presence both on screen and in the world of car collecting.
Technical Specifications and Features
| Base car | Engine | Power | Transmission | Wheels | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1967 Ford Mustang GT500 | 5.7-litre V8 | 400hp (298kW) | 4-speed manual | 17-inch, Goodyear tyres | Centrally-mounted driving lights, faux nitrous kit, lowered suspension |
The Eleanor Mustang auctioned in 2013 was powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine, delivering 400hp (298kW) through a four-speed manual transmission. The car was equipped with 17-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear tyres, a lowered suspension for improved stance, and a faux nitrous oxide kit to match its on-screen persona. Additional features included centrally-mounted driving lights and a custom body kit. To confirm its authenticity, the car was sold with a special plaque and a certificate verifying its use in the film.
Collector Demand and Provenance
Eleanor’s appeal to collectors is driven by its direct connection to a major Hollywood production and the enduring popularity of the Ford Mustang. While there are many replicas and tribute cars inspired by the film, only a handful of original Eleanors were built for Gone in 60 Seconds. Authenticity and provenance are crucial in the collector market, and the inclusion of documentation verifying the car’s film history adds to its desirability.
The $1 million sale price reflects not only the rarity of genuine screen-used Eleanors but also the broader appetite among collectors for iconic movie vehicles. Such cars often achieve high prices at auction, particularly when accompanied by verifiable documentation and a strong public profile. Eleanor’s instantly recognisable design and association with a popular film franchise make it a prime example of a car whose value is enhanced by its cinematic legacy.
Comparison with Other Iconic Film Cars
Movie cars have long attracted attention and high bids at auctions, especially when they are well-documented and retain original features from their time on screen. While Eleanor’s $1 million sale places it among the most valuable film cars ever auctioned, other notable examples include the Aston Martin DB5 from the James Bond films, the DeLorean from Back to the Future, and the Batmobile from the 1960s Batman television series. These vehicles, like Eleanor, have become cultural icons and are highly sought after by collectors for their unique blend of automotive and cinematic history.
| Car | Film/TV | Sale Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Eleanor Mustang | Gone in 60 Seconds (2000) | $1 million |
| Aston Martin DB5 | James Bond: Goldfinger | $4.6 million |
| DeLorean DMC-12 | Back to the Future | $541,000 |
| Batmobile | Batman TV Series (1966) | $4.6 million |
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Eleanor’s legacy extends beyond the auction room. The car has inspired countless replicas and tribute builds, and its unique styling has influenced custom Mustang projects around the world. For many enthusiasts, Eleanor represents the ultimate combination of American muscle car heritage and Hollywood glamour. The car’s ongoing popularity shows the enduring appeal of both the Mustang and the Gone in 60 Seconds franchise. The $1 million sale of Eleanor marks a significant milestone in the world of car collecting, underlining the powerful connection between cinema and automotive culture.
