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Why the 2021 Mustang Mach 1 Is the Perfect Alternative to the Discontinued GT350

After seventeen years of absence, the Mach 1 returns to the Mustang lineup for the 2021 model year as a cheaper, yet similarly exciting track-oriented alternative to its Shelby-branded siblings.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 10 photos
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
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The Mach 1’s origins can be traced back to the late 1960s when Ford created a new breed of performance Mustangs, which would bear the Mach 1 title in honor of Chuck Yeager, the U.S. Air Force ace that broke the sound barrier (Mach 1) in 1947.

Just like the original model, the modern-day version aims to bridge the gap between the sporty Mustang GT and the monstrous track-focused Shelby GT500, offering the perfect alternative for the discontinued GT350.

Visually, the new Mach 1 pays homage to the original model by using a new deep 3D mesh front grille which incorporates two fake lamps flanking the galloping pony logo. Although these serve no functional purpose, it has been reported that they can be easily removed, opening a world of possibilities for aftermarket add-ons.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
The car also features new, wider side grilles under each turn signal lamp and the same rear diffuser used on the Shelby GT500 for increased downforce.

Under its hood, we find the capable 5.0-liter (307-cu in) Coyote V8 that uses the same aluminum block and sprayed-in cylinder liners as the version which powers the GT but has a larger 87-mm (3.4-in) throttle body and a recalibrated version of the GT350’s intake manifold.

The powerplant also borrows the oil filter adapter and oil cooler from its Shelby sibling, increasing overall engine oil cooling by 50%.

These modifications lead to a maximum power output of 480 hp (358 kW) and a peak torque value of 570 Nm (420 lb-ft). Although it's less than the 526 hp (392 kW) produced by the Voodoo V8 unit of the GT350, it still provides enough power for an exhilarating track day experience.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
The new Mach 1 is available as standard with a Tremec 3160 six-speed manual transmission borrowed from the GT350. It is fitted with a revised oil cooler system and uses the Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and a short-throw shifter.

If the manual transmission proves too much of a hassle for the perfect hot lap, customers can go for the optional ten-speed SelectShift automatic, which features an upgraded torque converter, a second air-to-oil cooler, and a performance calibration. This is a welcomed addition considering that the Shelby GT350 was only available with the manual.

Those who prefer the manual can also add the exclusive Handling Package, which includes new wheels, a larger front splitter, new front wheel lip moldings, a swing spoiler with a Gurney flap, and rear tire spats borrowed from the GT500.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
To improve handling on both road and track, the car uses the latest MagneRide calibration, a stiffer steering I-shaft, sway bars and front springs, polyurethane subframe bushings, and the rear toe-links from Shelby GT500.

The car comes with 19-inch aluminum wheels, which are a modern interpretation of the classic Magnum 500 rims and come equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 performance tires.

The all-new and limited-edition 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is set to be released this spring in the U.S. and Canada. European customers will also get the new model for the first time, but it has been reported that the engine will be slightly less powerful in order to comply with the continent’s ever-stricter emissions standards.
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About the author: Vlad Radu
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Vlad's first car was custom coach built: an exotic he made out of wood, cardboard and a borrowed steering wheel at the age of five. Combining his previous experience in writing and car dealership years, his articles focus in depth on special cars of past and present times.
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