The Iconic Mustang in “Bullitt” Ended Up in a New Jersey Barn

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, the legendary chase scene in “Bullitt” (1968) remains one of the most thrilling and iconic moments in cinematic history. Featuring two roaring Ford Mustangs, and two Dodge Chargers in this high-octane sequence that continues to captivate audiences with its realism and intensity. Here’s a peek behind the scenes at the making of this unforgettable chase.

The Mustangs and Modifications

Both Mustangs used in the chase were provided by the Ford Motor Company as part of a promotional loan agreement with Warner Brothers. Veteran auto racer Max Balchowsky specially modified these cars for the high-speed pursuits, ensuring they could handle the intense demands of the scene.

The Stunt Team

Stunt coordinator Carey Loftin enlisted the help of Bud Ekins, a renowned stunt driver, to handle most of the driving for the chase. Ekins’ expertise allowed for the precise and daring maneuvers that defined the scene.

The Fate of the Cars

While both Dodges used in the chase were scrapped after filming, the Mustangs met different fates. One of the Mustangs was heavily damaged and subsequently scrapped, while the other, which sustained less damage, was purchased by a Warner Brothers employee after production wrapped. This surviving Mustang found its way to New Jersey, where Steve McQueen himself attempted to buy it. The owner refused to sell, and the car now resides in a barn, having recently made a comeback to promote the 2018 “Bullitt” Mustang at the Detroit International Auto Show.

Behind the Scenes Secrets

• Mirror Clues: In the interior shots of the Mustang, you can tell who is driving based on the position of the rearview mirror. When McQueen is driving, the mirror is angled down to reflect his face. When Ekins is driving, it is angled up, concealing his face.
• McQueen’s Daring Stunt: During the scene where a giant airliner taxis just above Steve McQueen, onlookers were shocked to see that no stunt double was used. When asked why a dummy wasn’t used for the dangerous shot, McQueen wryly replied, “They did.”
• Unscripted Burnout: Bullitt’s reverse burnout during the chase was not part of the original script. McQueen accidentally missed a turn, but the resulting footage was so impressive that it was kept in the final cut.

Legacy and Impact

The “Bullitt” chase scene not only set a new standard for action sequences but also cemented Steve McQueen’s status as a legendary action star. The meticulous planning, expert driving, and a touch of spontaneity all contributed to creating a moment in film history that remains unmatched.

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