Franklin Mint 1:24 1968 Ford Mustang GT 'Steve McQueen Bullitt' LE 6800 Now this car has the right color for the season...just the thing to make the season bright. Review by Tony Perrone

Overview

And then there were two. Two ‘mint’ versions of the Bullitt Mustang that is; one from DM and now one from FM. And yes, there are some subtle differences. But lest we forget, there are precious few model year ’68 iterations of the mint Mustang itself. The Bullitt is DM’s only one and this is FM’s first hard top ’68. The issue commemorates the fortieth anniversary of the movie’s release. Making this release so special is the reproduced signature of Steve McQueen, authorized by his estate, and the special stand that goes with it.

As I previously noted in the first mint Bullitt recreation, the movie staff made changes to Ford’s stock GT. FM did justice to those changes. There may be an issue with the antenna placement. DM’s version locates it forward and FM’s has it aft. But the film shows no evidence of the antenna, at least in the up position. FM gives us a little goodie to go along with the nice presentation; Frank Bullitt’s shoulder holster, revolver nicely tucked inside. Drape this over a seat, if you choose, for effect.

The seat belts are really well done. They carry photo-etched metal buckles at the ends of the fabric material. Gauges, dash and floor are detailed in fine fashion but you have to deduct a point or two for no vent glass. I have no problem with the dog leg door hinges. The model is born of older tech but does not detract since the hinges are low to the floor. The wipers are P-E and look well scaled and crafted. The hood opens with a nice ‘assist’ and offers a full view of the good detail found in the engine bay. The chassis too, is finely crafted and the fully articulating suspension works well. The trunk lid also opens easily but assists, when closing, by snapping shut. The spare carries a fifth mag wheel and jacking instructions are found stickered to the inside lid.

I have always liked anything, “Steve McQueen” and find this issue to be a true treasure. The stand and gun holster makes a nice addition but the reproduced autograph adds the main interest. * Note: One of our readers recently emailed me to say, "I just wanted to add, that in the film, towards the closing of the car chase, there is evidence of the antenna on the rear passenger side fender. The antenna believed to be a telescoping piece was lowered during the chase so you see the lower mounting base of this piece vaguely in the film. Also, Chad McQueen had his father's car rebuilt for himself...and the antenna was relocated to the back fender as well."

Legacy Motors has Franklin Mint's fabulous 1968 Ford Mustang GT *Steve McQueen Bullitt* in stock. Own the best chase scene ever!