Ford Mustang Mach 1 blends BULLITT V8 with GT350

Ford has pulled the drapes off its 2021 Mustang Mach 1, the hotter pony car created to fill the gap between the Mustang GT and hard-core Shelby GT350 and GT500.

On sale in the US early next year, the new Mustang Mach 1 resurrects a name first used for a faster version of the Ford pony car back in 1969, and comes powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 that produces the same 358kW and 569Nm as the imited-edition Mustang BULLITT.

Despite not offering more power than the previous BULLITT, Ford engineers have fitted the uprated six-speed manual Tremec 3160 'box from the Shelby GT350.

Not only is the Shelby tranny tougher, it offers a twin-disc clutch, shorter shift and rev-match technology.

The GT350 transmission is just one of many Shelby goodies that have migrated to the Mach 1, with the fast 'Stang adopting the hard-core track-optimised coupe's intake manifold, oil filter adapter and engine oil-cooler, which increases cooling capability by 50 per cent.

As well as the DIY six-speeder, Mach 1 buyers also have the option of a 10-speed auto that features a beefed-up torque converter and revised calibrations, promising a sportier character than the standard slusher.

Opt for the auto and another air-to-oil cooler boosts the capacity up to 75 per cent more than the standard car, keeping the Mach 1 chilled even during prolonged track use.

As previewed by earlier teasers, the Mustang Mach 1 features plenty of design cues from the original '69 car, including a new diamond mesh hexagonal grille that incorporates two porthole air intakes that double as fog light surrounds.

Between them is a big new front air-dam, complimented by aggressive side skirts and a large rear diffuser that's lifted from the Shelby GT500.

Dark grey or black accents are applied to the body, mirrors and rear spoiler, and a set of 19-inch Magnum 500-replica rims complete the exterior changes.

As standard, the faster Mustang gets thicker anti-roll bars, firmer front springs and stiffer bushings, plus a rear toe-link from the GT500. A larger brake servo and Michelin PS4 tyres complete the chassis tweaks.

For those who plan to track their Mach 1, Ford has created a new Handling Package.

Only available with the six-speed manual, it adds a high-downforce front splitter, front bumper winglets, a new rear 'swing' spoiler and rear tyre spats borrowed from the GT500.

The handling kit also boosts mid-corner grip with the addition of wider 19-inch front and rear rims.

In total, Ford says the Mach 1 produces 22 per cent more downforce that the Mustang GT with optional Performance Pack, but with the additional Handling Pack this rises to 150 per cent.

Part of the big boost in high-speed stability comes from underbody cladding that smooths airflow. Additionally, the new bellypan features vents for improved brake cooling.

Inside, there's white stitching, a white cue-ball shifter, new kickplates and an updated screen for the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, plus Mach 1 badging and an engraved vehicle plate.

There's no word on pricing for the Mach 1 but the faster performance variant of the Ford Mustang has already been ruled out for our market.

“The Mach 1 news is specific to the US. Here in Australia, we’re proud of Mustang R-SPEC as our halo model, with the 2020 GT and 2.3L High Performance models offering greater value and choice for this iconic nameplate,” says Ford Australia.