The best car chases in film history

Today we present what, in our view, are the best car chases in film history.

The Seventh Art has given us unforgettable moments when it comes to cars. Thanks to the collaboration between iconic models and great scenes, many cars have managed to earn “legend” status.

Today we give you our opinion, based on our own tastes, on which are the best car chases in film history. Of course, and as always, there’s no accounting for taste, so don’t get angry if your favourite isn’t on the list.

Bullitt: Ford Mustang (1968)

Of course, we couldn’t start the list with what many consider the best car chase scene in all of film history. Behind the wheel of a beautiful green Ford Mustang from ’68, driven by Steve McQueen through the iconic streets of San Francisco, fun and spectacle are guaranteed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJZ-BHBKyos

The long chase is filmed exquisitely, with all the attention to detail that any film or car enthusiast could wish for. Furthermore, and perhaps most notable, there is no computer involved.

The whole scene was built from real driving carried out by professional stuntmen. Special mention goes to Steve McQueen, who performed his own driving scenes. It is well known that this actor was a true car enthusiast, and he surely had a great time filming every scene.

His ’68 Ford Mustang has gone down in history as an icon of pop culture, and it is also one of the most desired and expensive collector cars you could “get your hands on”.

The Bourne Identity: Mini Cooper (2002)

Matt Damon at the wheel of a classic Mini Cooper as the vehicle, the beautiful city of Marseille as the setting, and the incredible Paul Oakenfold track: “Ready Steady Go” playing in the background, create one of the best chase scenes ever filmed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD0VD3LElOI

This series of films about the famous spy has given us more than one incredible chase; in fact, every film in the franchise contains at least one great scene of this kind, and all of them are worth watching.

Once again, the realism and quality of the scenes shot on the streets by professionals make you want to drive one of those legendary Mini Coopers, even if only once.

Gone in 60 Seconds: Shelby Mustang GT-500 from ’67 “Eleanor” (2000)

Any car enthusiast who hears the name “Eleanor” should immediately recall the absolutely gorgeous 1967 Shelby Mustang GT-500, in silver, which, with Nicolas Cage behind the wheel, stars in one of the best chase scenes in film history.

It’s true that the car was not really a 1967 Shelby Mustang, but the base version of that year’s Mustang modified to look like the exclusive and incredible 1967 GT500, but what does it matter? The fact is, it convinces.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNTey5zbc8Q&t=61s

After watching this impressive chase, especially in terms of its spectacle, which culminates in an iconic jump through traffic, even though it has a computer involved, you can only wish to get your hands on a 1967 Mustang.

James Bond, Spectre: Aston Martin DB10 (2015)

Of course we couldn’t leave out the most famous secret agent of all time. Behind the wheel of a beautiful silver Aston Martin DB10 we find Daniel Craig. He is pursued, as the villain’s car of choice, by an incredible Jaguar C-X75.

The scene, set in Rome, has the perfect combination of humour, tension and spectacle we’ve all been waiting for. Furthermore, the use of computers is very limited, which is always appreciated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jygRWM3nIA0

The secret agent film saga has many epic chases, and choosing just one was not easy. In the end, what characterises this legendary character is his spectacle, and that “show off” of Aston Martin, as if to say, “yes, we know you want one too”. In the end, a modern film like Spectre was a logical choice.

I would also like to make a special mention of the spectacular final chase in “Die Another Day”, a 2002 spy film with Pierce Brosnan, where the over-the-top stunts and spectacle are the pure essence of James Bond, all the more so when the setting is entirely on ice and involves a satellite capable of destroying the world. A treat for the senses, although it leans too heavily on computer effects.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32kXCBCoo0Q

Ronin: BMW 5 Series E34 (1998)

Now it’s the turn of a famous film starring, among others, Robert De Niro. This time the chase takes place in Paris, with a BMW 5 Series E34. The scenes could have been improved, but it remains excellent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxxH0lZSYgU&t=139s

Mad Max 2 (1981)

Another true classic takes this spot, and how. Mad Max became famous thanks to Gibson’s charisma and, among other things, the importance and connection between man and machine, in this case, Max’s car.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REAni_fAA-c

In this post-apocalyptic future of the second instalment, we are treated to a very well-executed chase with all that eighties flavour we love so much.

The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)

I know it may seem surprising, but of all the instalments in the franchise, beyond the spectacle of the later ones, such as in Fast Five, when Brian and Toretto push a safe through Brazil while driving two Mustangs, the chase in Tokyo in the third instalment stands out above the rest.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zspg1gmIh44

Drifting is the main element of this footage, and of course there couldn’t be a chase without these thrilling slides through the streets of Tokyo. A Mitsubishi Evo VII, the Nissan 350 Z and an Mazda RX-7, all tuned, like the classic Fast & Furious films, will ensure you have a great time.

If you’re looking for a huge stunt, but full of spectacle, action and laughs, perhaps the chase in Spain from Fast & Furious 6, where a tank gets in the way of the protagonists, will be enough for you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Crf5WKbkwg&t=293s

Drive: Ford Mustang GT (2011)

Once again, another Ford Mustang GT takes a place in this low-budget feature starring Ryan Gosling. One of the best of the decade.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1vpwxtH9Hk

It has several memorable driving scenes; however, the chase we propose is short, but it will leave no one unsatisfied. Very realistic and very well made.

Duel (1971)

This film, not as well known to most, is none other than Steven Spielberg’s first feature-length film, the film with which he broke into the film world and began his fame.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hyss8c_6Uzw

Be warned that the entire film is a chase. In fact, a “killer” truck pursues an American muscle car throughout the whole film. The tension and classicism of its scenes will keep you glued to the sofa.

Need for Speed (2014) and Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)

I would also like to include the chase scenes in Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, where Ethan Hunt drives a spectacular BMW M5, or the very recent film adaptation of Need for Speed based on the video game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1CvpikJntU

In the latter case, a Shelby Mustang GT-500 of our times, with 900 hp, will leave all the police looking ridiculous with drifts, stunts and impossible manoeuvres. It is also one of my favourites.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gq3P8TJKgNs

Technical specifications of the cars in this article

SedanJaguar XF7 versions · from 65,200 €

CoupeFord Mustang6 versions · from 62,405 €