Here’s a pairing about two Millennial celebrities with Vegas connections. When you be the high bidder for this Eleanor replica Barrett-Jackson upcoming (June 22-24, 2023) auction in Las Vegas, it will be your car and you can drive it like you stole it. However, not all Eleanor replicas are created equal, as this one is more equal than others.
First things first: remember Danny Gans? Impressionist, actor, singer, car enthusiast and all round funny guy. He’s been called the greatest entertainer you’ve never heard of. THE Los Angeles Times “He called the impersonation not satire, but a breathtaking achievement – put into the entertainment blender of the last 50 years and presented as a mass culture smoothie”. Danny began his career in Las Vegas in 1996, which led to him becoming a big deal on the Strip until he passed away unexpectedly in 2009.
At the same time, Danny had the audience clapping and laughing with his remake of the classic B-movie, Gone in 60 seconds, was released in cinemas. In some respects, the original hero was a modified 1971 Mustang SportsRoof, but the 2000 reboot featured a customized 1967 Shelby GT500 that, thanks to the Internet, has been hailed from universe to shining universe.
In 2002, Danny Gans commissioned Cinema Vehicle Services to convert a lowly 1967 Mustang 2+2 into a replica of the Sanford and Foose-designed Eleanor. An element of authenticity was provided by the Total Control Products body kit, which was based on the unique fiberglass shapes of the current movie car. Eleanor was further shaped through a 400hp 351 Windsor that featured a Clay Smith camshaft and roller valves, forged pistons, Shorty heads and other goodies. The five-speed manual with a Centerforce performance clutch is inspired by Randall “Memphis” Raines.
Underneath, the A-arms were relocated to make room for Shelby dropper coils. Additional mods include 620 coil springs, shock tower saddles, KYB shocks, five-leaf center rear springs, and more. PS Engineering custom wheels (17 x 9.5/rear and 17 x 8/front) are mounted on Z-rated tires, and the kit is driven by power-enhancing four-wheel discs.
Inside, you will be greeted by vintage Shelby seats with fold-down rear seats, but the interior is also decorated with modernity thanks to Vintage Air air conditioning, a four-speaker AM/FM cassette radio, and a custom-fitted AutoMeter Phantom. instruments, wood Lecarra steering wheel and more.
Danny Gans’ Eleanor replica currently has approximately 4,000 miles on it since construction was completed in 2002. The sale includes the certificate of origin. If this sounds like your dream car, be sure to attend the 2023 Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas auction on June 22-24. Be warned though, it’s also many other people’s dream cars, so this vehicle is definitely not going to be a steal.
