New Ford Mustang Mach 1 2021 confirmed! V8 muscle car back to again headline non-Shelby range

Ford has confirmed the Mustang range will receive a new halo model for MY21, the returning Mach 1, which will slot in below the Shelby GT350 and GT500, albeit as a special edition.

Set to be revealed sometime in the next three weeks, the new Mach 1 will be powered by a pumped-up version of the GT’s 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine and will be available in the Fastback coupe body-style.

“Mach 1 has a special place in Mustang history, and it’s time for this special edition to claim the top spot in our 5.0-litre V8 performance line-up and reward our most hardcore Mustang enthusiasts who demand that next level of power, precision and collectability,” said Ford Icons director Dave Pericak.

“Like the original, the all-new Mustang Mach 1 will be true to its heritage, delivering great looks and as the most track-capable 5.0-litre Mustang ever.”

While no other details have been confirmed yet, Ford has released three teaser images of a camouflaged Mach 1 prototype, which features two circular grille inserts that pay homage to the MY69 original’s foglights.

Also visible are an aggressive front bumper and splitter as well as matte-black 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 305/30 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres up front, with red Brembo brake callipers tucked behind.

At the rear, the Mach 1 has a slightly more aggressive bootlid spoiler and diffuser insert, which houses what appear to be larger quad exhaust tailpipes.

While Sparco racing seats and a roll cage can be glimpsed inside, they’re likely just fitted to the prototype for improved safety during track testing. That said, Ford might offer them as extra-cost options.

So, will the Mach 1 be sold in Australia? A local Ford spokesperson told CarsGuide “the Mach 1 news is specific to the US”, which suggests it might not head Down Under.

“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,” they added.

However, given the sell-out success of the Bullitt special edition, local buyers undoubtedly have an appetite for a Mustang Fastback with a more potent 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, so time will tell if the Mach 1 ventures outside of the US.