Engine calibration has been revised to enhance throttle response, which is audibly appreciated through a new exhaust system that was engineered to replicate as close as possible the throaty staccato roar from the twin pipes of Lt. Bullitt's ride.

The 4.6-litre V8 has been bumped up to 315 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque.

And I must give credit where credit is due; the new Bullitt Mustang sounds remarkably like the movie version. In fact, it must be one of the loudest and proudest-sounding cars to roll off of a showroom floor in years.

To ensure the new Mustang Bullitt has a wicked launch off-the-line and up the steep hills of San Francisco, the racing team at Ford dropped in a 3.73:1 limited-slip rear axle. And to extend its handling ability, engineers swapped the GT's shocks and struts for more-aggressive units.

They also added a tower-to-tower brace that improves torsional and lateral stiffness of the chassis. A brace-mounted plate authenticates the car as a numbered, limited-production vehicle. Only 7,700 2008 Bullitts will be produced and shared among the Canadian and US markets. Can you say "future collectable?"

Handling to match its undercover image
Those that believe American muscle is all about straight-line theatrics couldn't be more misinformed. Sure, the Bullitt Mustang is mighty quick in-between curves, however it's also mighty capable in them, perhaps more so than expected.

My testing didn't provide track time to fully fire Ford's 4-wheel projectile, but my exploits were sufficient to deem it a stout handler in pretty much any situation. Steering response is crisp and precise while body lean is NIL to negligible. Ride quality is however on the firm side, leaving one to feel that while effective, the underpinnings are not all that sophisticated.

Being Frank
I was astonished at how successfully the Bullitt returned me to my teen years, a time when nothing but a loud, bitchin' V8 would be considered worthy of attention. From its heavy clutch to its rumbling powerplant, the Bullitt is true to the era.

To extend its handling ability, engineers swapped the GT's shocks and struts for more-aggressive units.