2021 Ford Mustang — Hello, Mach 1; Goodbye, GT350 & Bullitt
The alleged 2021 VIN Decoder features the Mustang Mach 1 as well as two distinct 5.0L V8 options, but only one Shelby.
Interesting (unconfirmed) news for the 2021 Ford Mustang model year, folks. Earlier today, Mach-E Club forum member machstang posted alleged VIN decoders for all 2021 Ford Mustangs. As this still includes the Mach-E (sorry, pony faithful), you’ll be able to use this decoder on any Mustang to identify things like specific model trims and engine type or, in the Mach-E’s case, battery size and electric motor configuration. For example, if you buy a Mustang Mach-E GT, your VIN body type is “K4S” and your engine type is likely an “X” or “E.” But forget all that because the mysterious machstang ALSO posted alleged details about the regular old gasoline-powered 2021 Ford Mustang. And it’s pretty big news!
In looking at this alleged VIN decoder, I noted three potentially fascinating pieces of information, assuming this thing is legit and anywhere close to accurate.
Return of the Mustang Mach 1
First, as MotorTrend noted and we reported earlier this year, it appears as though the Mach 1 rumors are true. The historic nameplate looks very likely to return for the 2021 model year. On this VIN decoder, Mach 1s will carry the body type code “P8R.” You will also see body type codes for the Shelby GT500, Mustang GT, Mustang GT Convertible, Mustang I4, and Mustang I4 Convertible.
Goodbye, GT350 and Bullitt
In other words, the 2020 model year may very well be the final year of production of the Shelby GT350 as well as the Bullitt package. The Bullitt news isn’t surprising, as the S197 Bullitt also featured a two-year model run. But the GT350 is still one of the best handling Mustangs ever built. And the GT350 and its R variant feature the incredible 5.2L Voodoo flat-plane crank V8 with an 8250RPM redline.
It’s been an incredible six model-year run and, with the GT350’s possible passing, it also means there’s no track-focused Mustang available in a manual. Yes, the PP2 GT is very good on track, but it lacks the GT350’s rear differential coolers and, of course, the glorious voodoo engine, but perhaps the Mach 1 will get the GT350’s coolers.
Two 5.0s?
Lastly, let’s talk about engines. As you can see from the VIN Decoder, there are five gasoline engine options. Setting aside the 5.2L Predator for the Shelby GT500 and the two 2.3L I4s (it looks like the High Performance Package Ecoboost is returning), there two 5.0L engine options listed.
The first — engine type “0” — is the 5.0L TIVCT, which is what Ford calls the port fuel direct injection Gen 3 Coyote on the official Mustang GT site. TI-VCT stands for Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing. But if you look further down the list, if your VIN has an “F” under engine type, that says 5.0L 4V.
Assuming this is correct, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 will likely feature a mildly upgraded Gen 3 Coyote akin to the outgoing Bullitt. Why not something more unique, ala the New Edge Mach 1? It’s certainly possible, but based on 2019 Mustang VIN decoding, Ford used the similar “F” and “0” engine type codes to differentiate between (“F”) the standard 460hp Gen 3 Coyote and (“0”) 480hp Bullitt Coyotes, which featured an upgraded open airbox and intake manifold. Even if it’s only a mild upgrade, let’s hope Ford tops the Bullitt’s 480 crank horsepower.
What do you think of this news and what do you hope the Mach 1 will feature?
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