Get ready to ride, there’s a new pony in town and it’s sure to get your engine going. With speed, style and a name that embodies both, Ford has announced the Mustang Mach 1 is roaring back to life this year. The iconic fastback coupé debuted in the late-1960s and now Mustang enthusiasts have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of this legend once again.
“Mach 1 has a special place in Mustang history, and it’s time for this special edition to claim the top spot in our 5.0-litre V8 performance lineup and reward our most hardcore Mustang enthusiasts who demand that next level of power, precision and collectability,” said Dave Pericak, director, Ford Icons. “Like the original, the all-new Mustang Mach 1 will be true to its heritage, delivering great looks and as the most track-capable 5.0-litre Mustang ever.”
A legacy reborn
Mach 1 debuted for the 1969 model year and immediately carved out its place in the Mustang lineup, delivering performance and improved dynamics with its GT handling suspension. In the years that followed, Mach 1 saw improved performance versus Mustang GT and was more attainable than Shelby and Boss variants.
Two years after its début, Mach 1 with its competition suspension hit the streets in 1971 longer and larger than the original, with an assortment of powerful engine options. In 1974, Mach 1 again saw major changes, reimagined for the first time as a hatchback. Mach 1 later returned for 2003 and 2004 model years, blending modern power with the nostalgia of 1970s-era Mach 1 design elements.
Seventeen years later, the all-new 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is set to return as the most track-ready 5.0-litre Mustang ever, once again delivering design magic while adding to its performance legacy.
In with the new
The all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5.0-litre Mustang ever, courtesy of a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models and an available Handling Package for greater at-limit handling.
Like the original, the all-new Mach 1 bridges the gap between Mustang GT and Shelby models, delivering V-8 power, unique functional aerodynamic enhancements, competition-capable suspension upgrades and a driver-focused cockpit.
Packing a specially calibrated 5.0-litre V8 engine, the all-new version leans on decades of Ford Performance learnings, wearing a uniquely crafted front end for aerodynamic efficiency and a host of Ford Performance parts that help celebrate its iconic heritage. Drivers can also opt for an available 10-speed SelectShiftT automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimising torque capability, shift character and overall enhanced performance.
Built to perform, the all-new Mach 1’s grille harkens back to the original, staying true to Mach 1’s bold, muscular heritage while still offering a modern feel.
Satin Black side and hood stripes are included with reflective accent stripes in any of three colours: Red, White and Orange. Exterior colour options include the Mach 1 exclusive Fighter Jet Grey, as well as Iconic Silver, Shadow Black, Oxford White, Velocity Blue, Twister Orange, Race Red and Grabber Yellow.
The interior features a unique Dark Spindrift instrument panel with aluminium accents. Ebony seats with an accent stripe hint at Mach 1 heritage in cars equipped with a leather interior. Other interior upgrades include new door sill plates, an updated splash screen on the 12.3-inch all-LCD instrument cluster, a white cue ball shift knob, and engraved badging that displays the vehicle’s unique chassis number.
Availability in South Africa?
There is currently no information on pricing or a release date on the Mustang Mach 1 in SA, but based on what Ford South Africa did with the Bullit edition of 2020’s Mustang, it’s likely that there will be limited quantities available for order.
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