The auction will take place on Saturday January 14, courtesy of COYS auctioneers, with Eleanor expected to reach around £100,000. The car, in reality only designated as ‘number seven’, is one of 12 that were built for the movie. Five of those were stunt cars that were destroyed during filming.
Of the remaining seven, this was one of three so-called ‘hero cars’, built to be used by the actors in the film itself. And that means it’s very likely Nick Cage himself has been at the helm.
What’s more, this is one of only two of the remaining seven that are in private collections, making it rarer still.
According to the supplied copy of the build sheet, in addition to the bodywork modifications, the preparation of this particular 1967 Mustang fastback involved replacing the 289-cubic inch V8 with a 351-cubic inch Ford Racing crate motor fitted with a ‘big’ camshaft and 700cfm Holley 4-barrel carburettor.
Total Control Products lowered the suspension with coil over front suspension and Willwood disk brakes all round with 6 piston callipers on the front. Though not functional in the movie, the side exhausts were made functional by Cinema Vehicle Services when filming was completed. The Fuel Safe tank is filled through a Mach 1 cap on the C-Pillar.
The paintwork is reported to be in excellent condition, as is the interior, which is said to be ‘free from significant wear or damage.’ The engine is in peak condition as well, the side exhausts doing their job well.
The Autosport International show is on at the Birmingham NEC from January 14 to 17. (Press Association)
