An automotive gem with a dash of Hollywood history, the Alpha One GTO driven by Tom Cruise in the 2001 film “Vanilla Sky,” directed by Cameron Crowe, is now up for grabs. This interesting build, a replica of the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO built on a 1976 Datsun 280Z chassis, combines the allure of classic design with the thrill of celebrity provenance, making it a must-have for collectors and film enthusiasts alike.
Powered by a robust 350 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 engine and equipped with a 3-speed automatic transmission cleverly disguised to mimic a manual, this car offers a blend of performance and nostalgia. Riding on independent four-wheel suspension with coilovers, the Alpha One GTO promises an engaging driving experience.
Originally conceived by Barry Goldstein and later refined and marketed by Joe Alphabet as the “Alpha One GTO,” this vehicle emerged as a popular kit car alternative to the high-priced original, thanks to the affordability of Datsun Z donor cars. Its journey from a concept to a star of the silver screen encapsulates a fascinating chapter in the world of replica automobiles.
The Alpha One GTO’s stint in “Vanilla Sky” not only displayed its visual appeal but also cemented its place in pop culture. Offered for sale out of Concord, California, with Montana registration, this car comes with a copy of the original Paramount Pictures title and a dossier of film-related documentation, adding to its collectibility.
The vehicle underwent a significant refurbishment between 2007 and 2008, now boasting a dark blue exterior over black vinyl upholstery, a paint correction, and an Artdeshine Nano Graphene coating for enhanced protection. Despite its replica status, the car features Ferrari badging and Scuderia fender decals, making it a convincing stand-in for the real deal from a distance.
Replicas, often met with skepticism in the classic car community, find redemption in examples like this Alpha One GTO. Its Hollywood heritage offers it a unique appeal, akin to the Modena GT California Spyder used in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” which now commands a six-figure value.
With its Datsun foundation and Chevrolet heart, the Alpha One GTO promises a driving and ownership experience far removed from the financial and maintenance demands of an authentic Ferrari 250 GTO. This sale represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of movie history, wrapped in the skin of one of the most revered cars ever made.
Steven Symes 
Shawn Henry
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