The Bullitt Mustang is back in town

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 07/03/2008 (6391 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The custom-made Mustang that co-starred with actor Steve McQueen in the 1868 thriller. “Bullitt”, has been reborn in a limited edition model that roared into Winnipeg Ford dealer showrooms just over a week ago.

Mid-Town Ford Sales president Rob Fridfinnson describes the new model as a coupe with an understated look that comes with many performance enhancements.

“This is as close to a custom model as you can get in a concept car,” adds sales manager Lance Fridfinnson.

The Mustang Bullitt features a 4.6L SOHC V8 engine, with 315 hp @ 6,000rpm (as compared to 300 hp @ 5750 rpm in the regular Mustang GT)) and 325 lb.-ft.@ 4,250 rpm (versus 320 lb.-ft. @ 4,200 rpm in the regular model). Performance features also include a unique air induction system, modified H-pipe, unique mufflers and 3.5″ packed exhaust pipes, a 3.73 limited slip rear axle, Ford Racing front strut tower brace with serialization label and sport-tuned shock absorbers, springs and stablizer bars.

The model is good for 20 miles per gallon (13.8L per 100 km) in the city and 32 mpg (8.7L. per 100 km) on the highway. The Bullitt’s distinct look is created by a unique upper grille (without fog lamps or pony badge), 18″ charcoal satin-finish cast aluminum wheels and faux fuel cap with the Bullitt emblem.

Inside, you will find a charcoal black interior with leather sport seats, upgraded steering wheel with the Bullitt logo, gunmetal-coloured instrument panel with engine-turn finish, 6-gauge instrument cluster with unique graphics, aluminun-finish ball shifter, pedal covers and sill plates.

“At Mid-Town, we have added a hands-free phone system, iPod plug-in and tail sensors that alert the car owner if someone is trying to tow the car away.” Lance Fridfinnson notes.

The limited edition Bullitt is available in ebony or highland green.

The base price is $40,919 (freight and pdi are extra).

Thus far, just one model per dealer is available. Lance Fridfinnson reports that a second model is due in about five weeks – and that will be it.

“We have had a lot of interest in the Bullitt,” he says.

Orion Chev has a couple of new hires at the management level. Dieter Hoch, the Pointe West Auto Centre dealership’s new sales manager, joined the Chevy store’s staff in mid-January after seven years in sales with an eastern import dealer.

“I felt that it was time for a change,” he says. “This was an opportunity for advancement and Orion is a lot closer to my home than where I had been working before.”

A step up was also what attracted Michael Desgroseilliers to Orion. The five-year sales veteran (with an European import dealership) joined the Orion staff as fleet and leasing manager in mid-February.

“I am always ready to take on new challenges,” says Desgroseilliers.

Both Desgroseilliers and Hoch say they are finding the change in their situations very positive.