Video: Silverstone Classic ‘Bullitt’ homage

The epic chase involving a Ford Mustang GT and a Dodge Charger R/T through the streets of San Francisco in the classic 1968 film Bullitt is still hailed as one of the most dramatic, exciting and influential in movie history. Now—as a special homage to the Oscar-winning movie, as well as a celebration of the Mustang’s 50th anniversary this year—some fans have got together and recreated the scene. Only, instead of San Francisco the new chase takes place in Silverstone in the U.K. (read on to find out why).

The new chase stays loyal to the visual style and events of the original. It starts with a Highland Green-colored Ford Mustang GT (in the original driven by Frank Bullitt, played by Steve McQueen) coming up on an intimidating black Dodge Charger R/T. The plot then switches to the Silverstone Circuit where the action gathers pace and reaches a spectacular conclusion with the Mustang forcing the Charger off the track resulting in a fiery explosion. As a nod to the original, even a mysterious green Volkswagen Beetle can be seen in several of the shots.

To answer why the famous chase was recreated in Silverstone, the site is home to the Silverstone Classis where this year Ford Motor Company’s [NYSE:F] Mustang will be honored. Both cars from the above clip will be featured at the event as part of a huge Mustang presence organized together with the Mustang Owners Club.

What’s more the duo will be joined by a number of other Mustangs from movies such as Gone in 60 Seconds and American Gangster. British TV personality Mike Brewer will also be attending in his recently restored 1967 Mustang while a pair of P51 Mustangs fighter planes will be wowing fans with a dazzling air display. In case you’re interested, this year’s Silverstone Classic takes place from July 25-27.