Ford Mustang Mach 1 gets 454bhp 23 | 03 | 2021
THE NEW TRACK-FOCUSED Ford Mustang Mach 1 can now be ordered from UK dealerships, with first deliveries scheduled for June. Prices start at £55,185 for the muscle-car which is powered by a 454bhp tuned version of the standard Mustang’s naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. And for the first time, British buyers get the option of a six-speed manual gearbox. (Related: Review — Ford Mustang 5.0-litre V8)
Boasting improved handling and some racy cosmetics, the Mach 1 also benefits from a reflashed ECU, a freer-flowing exhaust system, and the same open-air induction system previously restricted to the US market-only Shelby GT350.
There’s also an auxiliary oil cooler — which is again lifted from the GT350 — which is designed to maintain a constant engine temperature under prolonged heavy load, such as track use. (Related: Ford brings hybrid to S-Max and Galaxy)
Delivering 529Nm of torque, the Mach 1 comes with the Tremec six-speed manual gearbox; for an extra 2000 quid, you can have the 10-speed automatic, but really … why would you? Both are mated to a limited-slip differential and benefit from an extra gearbox cooler for added reliability on the track. (Related: Ford Puma Scots Car of the Year)
The suspension and handling is boosted by the addition of a new set of adjustable dampers and harder springs. There’s also tighter anti-roll bars, plus a host of adjustable suspension components. According to Ford, the latter make the Mach 1 sharper to drive. And just for good measure, the Mach 1 also gets the same subframes found on the Shelby GT350 and GT500. (Related: Review — Ford Focus ST)
In terms of cosmetics tweaks, Ford has added a new front splitter, a rear diffuser and a new two-piece upper grille. All contribute to a 22% gain in downforce compared with the regular Mustang GT. And for an extra £900, buyers can specify a set of 19in alloys. (Related: Review — Ford Focus RS)
Inside the cabin, the Mach 1 gets leather sports seats, a white cue-ball gear knob and a unique plaque which carries the car’s chassis number.
Related: Scot Sandy Mitchell to defend British GT title
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Jim McGill