The new Ford Mustang Mach 1 it is the latest addition to the North American pony car and will place itself between the 450 hp of the Mustang 5.0 V8 GT and the insane 770 hp of the Shelby Mustang GT500.
Mach 1 uses the same 5.0 V8 Coyote as the GT, but power grows up to 480 hp and torque up to 569 Nm, gains of, respectively, 30 hp and 40 Nm. Shelby GT350 inlet, radiator and oil filter adapter.
In some ways, the Mustang Mach 1 will fill the void left by the Shelby GT350 (and the more extreme GT350R), the most focused, circuit-optimized Mustang of all, which disappears from the catalog this year. The Mach 1 is not intended to be as focused as the GT350, but has been similarly optimized to tackle “fearless” circuitry, inheriting from the GT350 (and GT500) several components and lessons learned in the dynamic chapter.
Thus, the GT350 receives the same six-speed Tremec manual gearbox with automatic heel, and is also available with the 10-speed automatic gearbox (the same one we find on Ranger Raptor, for example). The GT500 receives the rear axle cooling system, the rear diffuser and the 4.5″ diameter (11.43 cm) exhaust.
At the chassis level, we find new calibrations in the Magneride suspension, with the front springs, stabilizer bars and suspension bushings increasing their firmness indexes. The electrically assisted steering is recalibrated and the steering column has been reinforced.
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An optional dynamic package (Handling Pack) will also be available, highlighting the addition of specific and wider wheels, as well as aerodynamic elements (larger front splitter, Gurney flap, among others) that contribute to a 128% increase downforce value compared to the Mustang GT — even without this pack, the Mustang Mach 1 offers 22% more downforce, thanks to a redesigned undercarriage.
Distinct
If mechanical and dynamic changes are stealing attention, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 also gets a specific visual treatment, easily distinguishing itself from its family members.
The highlight goes to the new shark nose, which is more aerodynamically efficient and to the specific front grille. Inside this we can see two circles, imitating the positioning of the circular optics of the first Mustang Mach 1 (1969). Even at the front we can see new air intakes, 100% functional — nowadays, it is not always guaranteed that they are.
Aesthetic differentiation can also be seen in the various elements with glossy coating (mirror mirror covers, spoiler, etc.) and the specifically designed 19″ five-spoke wheels inspired by those of the original Mach 1.
Will it reach Europe?
Apparently, yes, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 will reach the European continent. It is at least the information advanced by the Ford Authority that says it has had confirmation of this by the Mustang development team. It remains to confirm whether Portugal will be included in the plans or not.
Both the Shelby GT350 and the GT500 were never officially marketed in Europe, largely due to current emission regulations. Certainly the Mach 1 will have more facilities in getting the homologation, when using the same 5.0 V8 of the GT, engine that is available in Mustang in the European market.
If that happens, the Mustang Mach 1 will assume the role of the top of the range in Europe, taking the place of the Mustang Bullit, which also sees its career come to an end.