2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is Finally Unveiled
A legend returns to the Ford Mustang lineup for 2021. The Mustang Mach 1 regains its spot as a more powerful, more badass version of the popular GT.
First introduced in the late 1960s, the Mach 1 has a long tradition at the Blue Oval. It made several appearances over the past half-century, the last one coming more than 15 years ago.
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The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is motivated by a 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 480 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. It’s not just a juiced-up Mustang GT, mind you.
Performance Prevails
“With the Mach 1, we’re pushing the 5.0-litre engine to new heights,” said Tom Barnes, chief engineer for the Ford Mustang, in an interview with The Car Guide.
He claims the car will stand out from the Mustang GT not only with a 20-horsepower increase, but more importantly with major suspension and braking upgrades.
“A superb driving machine” is how Barnes describes the new Mach 1, adding that the sound of the exhaust system was also revised to deliver something “more brutal.”
In order to increase performance on the track, Ford engineers improved the cooling system using some components from the wicked Shelby GT350, such as the intake manifold and engine oil cooler. As a matter of fact, engine oil cooling capability is up 50 percent from the Mustang GT.
Furthermore, both the six-speed manual and 10-speed automatic transmissions have been recalibrated with new ratios.
Unique Looks
When it comes to styling, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1’s grille harkens back to the original with a deep 3D mesh, shark-nosed section and faux lamp elements.
Enthusiasts will also be happy to see a “Mach 1” badge on the sides, though the classic hood scoop is missing. “We don’t need that for performance,” Barnes assured. A black hood stripe provides contrast, but we bet some purists will be a tad disappointed.
The 2021 Mustang Mach comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels. Exclusive to manual versions of the car, the Handling Package includes wider wheels, a unique, higher-downforce front splitter, new front wheel lip mouldings and a low-gloss Magnetic swing spoiler with a Gurney flap and rear tire spats from the almighty Shelby GT500.
Customers can also select the Appearance Package to get the Mach 1 exclusive Fighter Jet Gray body colour along with reflective accent stripes on the hood in Orange.
Limited Production
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 will be built in a limited number of units, though the company declined to be more specific. Every one of them will feature a serialized plaque inside, just like the special-edition Mustang Bullitt, which won’t be back for 2021 (the power figures are identical, in case you didn’t realize).
Ultimately, Mustang lovers seeking extra levels of handling and performance on the track will be thrilled. Look for the 2021 Mustang Mach 1 to arrive at Canadian Ford dealerships in the spring of 2021. As always, pricing will be announced closer to launch.