Ford Motor is revitalizing the Mustang Mach 1 as the new global “pinnacle” of 5.0-liter V8 models for the famed pony car.
The automaker digitally revealed the limited-edition car on Tuesday. It shows greater performance compared to the current Mustang GT but is expected to be more attainable than Mustang Shelby GT models, which happen to be track-focused variants with more powerful engines.
The 2021 Mustang Mach 1 follows other “buzz” or “hype” models including the Bullitt, a model inspired by a Mustang in the 1968 movie by the same name starring Steve McQueen. Such vehicles aren’t bestsellers but still remain important to attract attention to entire brands and car lineups.
“With the success of the other recent buzz models such as Bullitt, now is a great time to bring back the legendary Mach 1 name to the pony car lineup after a 17-year hiatus,” Ford historian Ted Ryan stated during a media briefing. “This 2021 model lives up to the legacy, setting a new standard for 5.0-liter Mustang track performance.”
The 2021 Mustang Mach 1 – arriving next spring in the U.S. and Canada – showcases a more aggressive design, including a freshened front end and grille, together with performance parts from the Shelby GT models. The car’s engine churns out 480 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.
“It’s going to pull you from the seat of your pants,” Jim Owens, head of Mustang marketing, said. He described the car as the “pinnacle of 5.0-liter performance” for Mustang.
The car will come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A 10-speed automatic transmission will be available as well.
Ford did not provide details about prices for the car, which will be sold in global markets unlike other special models such as the Bullitt.
Company executives refused to talk about the sales expectations for the car. Over 300,000 Mustang Mach 1 models have been produced since its debut in 1969, according to the automaker. The car was first discontinued after nine years. The model got back for the 2003 and 2004 Mustang models.
The automaker also is using the “Mach” name for the Mustang Mach-E, an all-electric crossover that is expected to go on sale later this year.
