Ford appears rather proud of the 2019 Mustang Bullitt, so much so that it was the firm’s star attraction of this year’s Geneva Motor Show.
In name and in looks, it is nothing more than a special-edition Mustang GT inspired by an iconic movie. In reality, though, could it be much more than that? The Smoking Tire’s Matt Farah recently jumped behind the wheel of one in San Francisco to see for himself.
Powering the Bullitt is largely the same naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 as the standard Mustang GT. However, the powertrain has been outfitted with an assortment of new parts, including the intake manifold of the GT350 that helps add 20 hp, bringing total grunt to 480 hp (486 PS) and 420 lb-ft (568 Nm) of torque.
To make for the ideal driving experience, this engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission that sends power through the rear wheels. The gearbox also includes a rev-matching feature which, if you so desire, can be disabled.
Another noteworthy feature about the Mustang Bullitt is its adoption of a MagneRide semi-active suspension system, which Farah says results in a comfortable ride, even at high speeds. You’ll have to pay extra for it, though, as it doesn’t come standard.
Visual changes that distinguish the Bullitt from other Mustangs include the green Dark Highland Green paint scheme, five-spoke gloss black wheels, bespoke badging and red brake calipers.
In late March, Ford confirmed that the car starts at $46,595 excluding a $900 destination and delivery fee. That’s a lot of money, especially when you consider that the $2100 Bullitt Electronics Package is needed to add a blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert, a B&O play 12-speaker audio system, touchscreen navigation, and memory settings for the driver’s seat.
Bottom line: is Ford milking the Steve McQueen connection for all it’s worth, or is the all-new Bullitt a proper sports car in its own right?