Mustang Mach 1 Buyers Can Now Opt for Both 10-Speed and Handling Package

By John Coyle - October 26, 2020

Initially, if you wanted an auto and the trick handling bits on your 2021 Mustang Mach 1, you were out of luck.

When we first started getting details about what we could expect from Ford’s latest incarnation of its legendary Mach 1 Mustang, one thing jumped out. Fortunately, it wasn’t the thing that Save the Manuals fans feared, because unlike the Shelby GT500, the Blue Oval’s supersonic pony with be available with a proper manual. So if you somehow didn’t know about the third pedal in the Mach 1? Consider yourself relieved. But the information does involved the transmission, however, and it involved the availability of the Handling Package with the ten-speed auto.

Until recently, if you wanted all those cogs, you’d have to pass on the adjustable strut top mounts, stiffer springs, solid rear sway bar, front splitter, and rear wing that comes with the Handling Package, as it was available with the manual only. Since it also comes with 19-inch wheels and fly-paper sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber, the bundle is a steal at $3,500, and apparently there were enough folks interested in both the track-ready kit and the automatic to make Ford reverse course. So if you were looking fully option out your Mach 1? You’re in luck.

Now, not too long ago, I’d have taken a smug sense of satisfaction in that you couldn’t get the racier suspension components on a car with an automatic. Because I happen to love driving a stick, and appreciate all the expertise that driving one well entails.

But honestly? I’ve recently driven some cars, including the new Supra, where I didn’t really miss the stick at all. As an enthusiast, it was a watershed moment for me, and truth be told, I tend to prefer paddles when I’m on the track. That’s what they were designed for, so I guess it makes sense. And I’ll admit that when I’m flogging a car on a circuit, particularly an unfamiliar one, I generally have enough things on my mind — and don’t like worrying about executing perfect heel-toe footwork.

That said, for my personal car? When it came time to check the options boxes, I’d still go old-school. But how about you? Would you choose faster lap times, and easier stop-and-go traffic over a traditional gearbox? Hit me up and let me know. And if you’re lucky enough to have a Mustang Mach 1 on order, let me know which options and packages you selected. I’m partial to Antimatter Blue and Grabber Yellow, but that’s just me…

Photos: Ford