Rumors of a new Bullitt Mustang based on the sixth-generation pony have flying around for a couple of years now, but Ford has yet to confirm such a model. However, various spy shots confirmed its existence since late December. Now, the folks over at the Mustang6G forums have discovered proof that the brand-new Bullitt Mustang is scheduled to break cover next week. Interestingly enough, the unveiling might not take place at the Detroit Auto Show. Instead, the new Bullitt could be revealed at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction on January 19.

The upcoming auction will feature a "special new Ford Mustang" according to the Barrett-Jackson website, but the listing lacks photos and a proper description. Part of lot #3006, the "Ford charity vehicle" features a shadowy photo of a first-generation Mustang that looks a lot like a 1968 fastback model, the car on which the original Bullitt was based on. But that's not the only hint. The description also says that car will be sold with "100% of the hammer price benefiting Boys Republic."

A private, all-boys school for troubled teenagers located in Chino Hills, California, Boys Republic is the school that Steve McQueen himself attended at age 16. He graduated in 1946 and was named honorary chairman in 1966. The school still hosts the annual Friend of Steve McQueen Car Show at its campus in order to raise funds, so it's safe to assume that this auction is more than just a coincidence. Add the fact that the original Bullitt Mustang turns 50 in 2018 and it makes even more sense. On top of that, Ford has auctioned first production units of new vehicles for charity in the past, including the 2015 Shelby GT350 and the 2015 Mustang GT, so it wouldn't be strange to see the first Bullitt go under the hammer only days after its unveiling.

With the auction set to take place on January 19, it's not out of the question for the Bullitt to break cover at the Detroit Auto Show, which kicks off on January 15.

Third Bullitt Model

The 2018 Bullitt will be the third iteration of the famous car that Steve McQueen drove in the 1968 film. The first tribute car was introduced in 2001 as a mild upgrade to the fourth-generation Mustang GT. The coupe had chassis and drivetrain updates, a slightly more powerful V-8 engine, unique wheels, a foglamp delete, and a decklid spoiler.

The Bullitt returned in 2008, four years into the fifth-gen Mustang's production cycle. The package included upgrades similar to the first edition plus Shelby GT500-inspired seats and steering wheel, an open-element air filter, a unique exhaust, and 15 extra horsepower. The bundle added $3,310 to the standard GT Premium model and was kept in production for 2009 too.

References

Ford Mustang

Read our full review on the 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt.

Was a Next-Gen Ford Mustang Bullitt Caught Playing in Chicago?