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Ford brings back Mustang Mach 1

The Mustang Mach 1 is back after a 17-year hiatus. The all-new 480-hp limited-edition fastback coupe aims to set a new standard for 5.0-liter V8 track-ready performance in the Mustang lineup.

Ford unleashed its original Mach 1 in 1969, setting numerous speed and endurance records in its first model year at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Thanks to its added handling capability, Mach 1 teams earned back-to-back SCCA Manufacturer's Rally Championships in 1969 and 1970.

Like the original, the all-new Mach 1 spans the gap between the Mustang GT and Shelby models, delivering V8 power, unique functional aerodynamic enhancements, competition-capable suspension upgrades, and a driver-focused cockpit.

The Mach 1 sports a newly designed front end. It also features Ford Performance parts from Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models and an available Handling Package. Its V8 engine has a projected 480 hp at 7,000 rpm and 420 lb-ft of torque at 4,600 rpm. Integrated into the engine are revised Shelby GT350 components including the intake manifold, oil filter adapter, and engine oil cooler, increasing engine oil cooling capability by 50 percent.

Mach 1 comes standard with a Tremec 3160 six-speed manual transmission from the Shelby GT350. For the first time, Ford has outfitted the system with rev-matching, and the transmission is paired with the GT350 oil cooler system and Mustang GT's twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter.

Drivers can also opt for an available 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimizing torque capability, shift character, and overall enhanced performance. A second air-to-oil cooler increases cooling capacity by 75 percent.

To enhance track endurance, the design team added two side heat exchangers -- one to cool engine oil, the other transmission oil -- as well as a rear axle cooling system and lower diffuser from Shelby GT500.

A new underbelly pan, which the designers consider "the vehicle's most aerodynamically important upgrade," extends 20 in. farther rearward than on a Mustang GT Performance Pack to smooth and increase the airflow under the front of the car. Large underwing features in the belly pan increase downforce, while special belly pan airfoils in the brake cooling ramps improve downforce and assist the brake cooling flow, which is a first for Mustang.

To improve ride and handling, Mach 1 features the latest MagneRide calibration, a stiffer steering I-shaft, new EPAS calibration, stiffer sway bars and front springs, a brake booster from the Mustang GT Performance Pack Level 2, a rear subframe with stiffer bushings, and a rear toe-link from Shelby GT500.

The Mach 1's grille is a nod to the '69 original with a deep 3D mesh, shark-nosed section, and faux lamp elements. Flanking the fascia are new side grilles below each turn signal lamp. Low-gloss black and dark gray accents throughout the vehicle provide a premium, muscular look.

New 19-in. x 9.5-in. and 19-in. x 10-in. five-spoke Tarnished Dark-painted aluminum wheels are a modern version of the classic Magnum 500-style wheels. Handling Package vehicles come standard with unique, wider 19-in. x 10.5-in. front, and 19-in. x 11-in. rear Tarnished Dark-painted aluminum wheels.

The Handling Package, which is exclusively available with the manual transmission, includes a larger, higher downforce front splitter, new front wheel lip moldings, and a low-gloss swing spoiler with a Gurney flap and rear tire spats from Shelby GT500.

Satin Black side and hood stripes are included with reflective accent stripes in any of three colors: Red, White, and Orange (Appearance Package only). Exterior color options include the Mach 1 exclusive Fighter Jet Gray (Appearance Package only) 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 aluminum accents and Ebony seats with an accent stripe. Other interior upgrades include new door sill plates, an updated splash screen on the 12.3-in. all-LCD instrument cluster, a white cue ball shift knob, and engraved badging that displays the vehicle's unique chassis number.

The limited-edition 2021 Mustang Mach 1 will arrive in U.S. and Canadian Ford dealerships in spring 2021. Pricing has not been released, but word on the street is it will start at just north of $50,000.

Source: Ford Motor Co.

Published June 2020

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