Confirmed! Ford Mustang Mach 1 Returning for 2021

Ford claims the 2021 Mustang Mach 1, which debuts next spring, will be the “the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever.”

We knew it was happening, folks, but Ford has finally confirmed the return of the Mustang Mach 1 for the 2021 model year. And while this is only a teaser announcement — we can expect to see the vehicle later this year — Ford promises the new Mach 1 will deliver “great looks and as the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever.”

So what do we know so far? Very little, unfortunately. No engine specs. No power numbers or transmission options listed. But Ford’s provided teaser images offer up a few clues.

First, the revised front fascia includes what appear to be Boss 302 style (removable?) grille openings for increased airflow. And, unlike the regular Mustang GT and most recent Bullitt, the lower side grilles appear to be functional as they are in the Mustang Shelby variants, which I hope means we’ll see extra transmission and differential coolers (a known weak spot for the Performance Pack Level 2 Mustangs).

Moving around to the wheels and tires, Ford included a shot of very familiar six-piston Brembo brakes, which could be Bullitt or Shelby variants, but let’s hope that Ford keeps them red. Also, more telling, the featured tires are Pilot Sport Cup 2s, which we’ve seen on Performance Pack Level 2 GTs as well as some Shelby GT350 and GT500 models.

Lastly, around back (see below), note the beefer rear spoiler and quad-tipped rear fascia that resemble the most recent GT500 as well as a satellite radio roof antenna. As photographed on track, the next-generation Mustang Mach 1 also appears lowered with wider tires. I suspect they’ll be as wide as the best Shelbys.

As for other features and specifications, like power, we can only guess. We recently confirmed that the Mustang Mach 1 will have its own 5.0L variant, which Ford is calling the “epitome of naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 performance.” But this could mean either a complete upgrade like the Boss 302 Roadrunner engine or simply an intake, throttle body, and a tune, as we’ve seen in the Bullitt. However, without the Shelby GT350 returning to showrooms next year, that means Ford can push the Mach 1’s power numbers up into the low (to mid?) 500hp range without crowding their own market.

The only other big question is transmission. As the most track-focused 5.0 of all time, will Ford keep it a manual-only model and possibly spring for a Tremec? Or could we possibly see a version of the GT500’s amazing DCT as an option? Going with the former speaks to the heritage of the Mach 1 and tracking, but DCTs shift faster than the best humans. Either way, I can’t wait to find out.

Here’s what Ford had to say in their press release about the project:

Continuing the Legacy of Mach 1

Mach 1 debuted for the 1969 model year and immediately carved out its place in the Mustang lineup, delivering performance and improved dynamics with its GT handling suspension. In the years that followed, Mach 1 saw improved performance versus Mustang GT and was more attainable than Shelby and Boss variants.

“Mach 1 has always been that bridge between base Mustangs and the Shelby models,” said Ted Ryan, heritage brand manager, Ford Archives. “From a style and handling perspective, the original Mach 1 managed to stand out as unique, even in the Mustang lineup – and as the name implies, it could really move.”

Two years after its debut, Mach 1 with its competition suspension hit the streets in 1971 longer and larger than the original, with an assortment of powerful engine options. In 1974, Mach 1 again saw major changes, reimagined for the first time as a hatchback. This Mach 1 generation enjoyed a five-year run and beefed up its handling capabilities more with an optional Rallye Suspension Package.

Mach 1 returned for 2003 and 2004 model years, blending modern power with the nostalgia of 1970s-era Mach 1 design elements. Its unique Mach 1 handling suspension with larger Brembo front-disc brakes improved on-road performance, while its matte black spoiler and hood stripe helped the coupe standout.

Seventeen years later, the all-new 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is set to return as the most track-ready 5.0-liter Mustang ever, once again delivering design magic while adding to its performance legacy.

Photos: Ford 

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Michael S. Palmer

Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world's largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.

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