While countless Ford Mustangs have been modified to replicate the iconic star of the film Gone in 60 Seconds, very few possess the authentic big-block heritage found in this particular vehicle. Currently available for auction via Hagerty Marketplace, this 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback began its life as a legitimate R-code 428 Cobra Jet GT before undergoing a transformation into an officially licensed Eleanor Tribute Edition.
A Genuine Cobra Jet Pedigree
Ford introduced the formidable 428 Cobra Jet engine to the Mustang lineup in the middle of the 1968 model year. Although the factory rating was 335 horsepower, the combination of the 428 block with 427-style cylinder heads was widely recognized as producing well over 400 horsepower. Data indicates that only 2,253 fastbacks were equipped with this powerplant that year, making original R-code examples highly sought after by collectors.
According to the documentation, this vehicle's chassis number confirms it was produced at the San Jose assembly plant as a genuine R-code 428 Cobra Jet SportsRoof. Originally finished in Highland Green, the car is accompanied by a Deluxe Marti Report verifying its factory specifications, including its black Comfort-Weave bucket seats and four-speed manual transmission.
The Official Eleanor Transformation
In 2018, the current owner acquired the vehicle and initiated a conversion into an officially licensed Eleanor Tribute Edition. The status of being "officially licensed" is significant, given the history of legal disputes surrounding the Eleanor trademark. Owners who fail to secure the necessary authorization have previously faced severe consequences, including the seizure of their vehicles.
The car now features the classic Eleanor aesthetic, including:
- Signature black paint with gray racing stripes
- Comprehensive body kit with a pinned hood and scoop
- Center-mounted fog lamps and a rear spoiler
- Side-exit exhaust system and sequential taillights
- 17-inch Halibrand-style wheels
The interior has been upgraded with custom bucket seats, a center console, a roll bar, a walnut tilt steering wheel, a modern audio system, and climate control.
Built for Performance
The vehicle retains its 428 Cobra Jet V8 heart, though it has been enhanced with aluminum cylinder heads and intake, a Quick Fuel 750 carburetor, a performance camshaft, and an MSD ignition system. Power is now managed by a modern TREMEC five-speed manual gearbox with a hydraulic clutch, transferring torque to a robust nine-inch rear end. The chassis features a TCI Mustang II-style suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and Wilwood disc brakes on all four wheels.
Market Context and Auction Status
Evaluating such a vehicle is complex. While stock 1968 Cobra Jet fastbacks generally command high values, this build prioritizes performance and visual impact over factory originality. The market for licensed Eleanor tributes is distinct, often attracting enthusiasts who appreciate the high cost and labor invested in these specific recreations.
As the auction progresses, the final selling price remains a point of interest. The winning bidder will secure a unique hybrid: a documented, high-performance R-code classic paired with the famous movie-car aesthetic, ready for the road without the concerns typically associated with preserving a museum-grade original.