Ford Mustang Mach 1: 480 hp and track-bred hardware

The new Ford Mustang Mach 1 is the latest addition to America’s pony car and will sit between the Mustang 5.0 V8 GT’s 450 hp and the Shelby Mustang GT500’s wild 770 hp.

Ford Mustang Mach 1 engine and drivetrain

Like the GT, the Mach 1 uses the 5.0 V8 Coyote, although output rises to 480 hp and torque to 569 Nm - increases of 30 hp and 40 Nm respectively. These gains also result from fitting the Shelby GT350’s intake manifold, radiator and oil-filter adaptor.

In a sense, the Mustang Mach 1 will fill the gap left by the Shelby GT350 - and the even more extreme GT350R - the most track-focused Mustang of all, which has been optimised for circuit use and leaves the range this year. The Mach 1 is not intended to be as single-minded as the GT350, but it has also been developed to tackle race circuits “without fear”, inheriting several components and dynamic lessons from the GT350 and GT500.

The GT350 contributes its six-speed Tremec manual gearbox with automatic rev matching, while a 10-speed automatic transmission will also be offered - the same unit used, for example, in the Ranger Raptor. From the GT500, it receives the rear-axle cooling system, rear diffuser and 4.5-inch-diameter exhaust system (11.43 cm).

Chassis upgrades and the Handling Pack

The chassis features revised MagneRide suspension settings, while the front springs, anti-roll bars and suspension bushes have all been made firmer. The electric power steering has been recalibrated, and the steering column has been strengthened.

An optional dynamic package, the Handling Pack, will also be available. Its highlights include unique, wider wheels and aerodynamic components - including a larger front splitter, Gurney flap and more - which increase downforce by 128% compared with the Mustang GT. Even without this pack, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 produces 22% more downforce thanks to its redesigned underbody.

Distinctive styling

Although the mechanical and dynamic revisions take centre stage, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 also receives bespoke visual treatment, making it easy to distinguish from the rest of the family.

The key feature is the new, more aerodynamically efficient shark nose and its unique front grille. Within the grille are two circular elements that replicate the position of the round headlamps on the first Mustang Mach 1, launched in 1969. The front end also gains new air intakes that are 100% functional - something that cannot always be taken for granted today.

Further styling differences include several gloss-finished details, such as the door-mirror caps and spoiler, plus 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with a bespoke design inspired by those of the original Mach 1.

Will it come to Europe?

All signs suggest that the Ford Mustang Mach 1 will reach mainland Europe. At least, that is the information reported by Ford Authority, which says it received confirmation from the Mustang development team. It remains to be seen whether Portugal will be included in those plans.

Neither the Shelby GT350 nor the GT500 was ever officially sold in Europe, largely because of the emissions regulations in force. The Mach 1 should find homologation easier, as it uses the same 5.0 V8 as the GT, an engine already available in the European-market Mustang.

If it does arrive, the Mustang Mach 1 will become the range-topping model in Europe, replacing the Mustang Bullitt, whose production run is also coming to an end.