“Bullitt” is an iconic movie in every sense of the term. From the lead actor, Steve McQueen, to the ten minute chase scene and the real star, a Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang, every moment of this great movie is memorable. Mustang owners have built their own tributes to the Bullitt car in the past 40 years, from loyal recreations to contemporary versions.

The Steve McQueen Estate is teaming up Gateway Classic Mustang to build a new series of signature Mustangs with modern underpinnings but that classic fastback look.

Each car will start with an original 1967 or 1968 Ford Mustang body (why not just the reproduction bodies?) and will include a modern drivetrain, suspension, and engine. A 450 horsepower Roush small block crate engine will sit under the hood, linked to a Keisler five-speed manual transmission. The Roush engine makes 27 percent more than the original 390 cubic inch V8 engine, and in a small block package. With less weight up front, the new coil over suspension with rack and pinion steering will be able to transform this classic car into a much better performer through the twisties.

And 12-inch Baer brakes up front will have no problem stopping your descent down even the steepest of San Francisco’s legendary hills. All of this modern performance deserves a modern interior, and air conditioning a CD/MP3 player, and a boss sound system are just some of the interior improvements. The seating situation will be new-but-authentic, keeping that classic cool vibe without sacrificing comfort or performance. Each car will be built on a first-come, first-serve basis. We’re sure Steve McQueen would’ve been proud of this tribute to a legacy he helped create.