The Mach 1 is the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang

The Mach 1 returns for 2021 as Ford’s most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang yet. Ask 100 track-driving enthusiasts what the perfect track car is, and you’re likely to get 100 different answers. Despite living in the shadow of the 760-hp Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 deserves consideration, especially if your track car needs to be a daily driver.

Named for the Mach 1 special editions of the past, the new Mach is best thought of as a track-focused replacement for three discontinued Mustangs: the Mustang GT with the Performance Package 2 (PP2), the Mustang Bullitt, and the GT350. With the Bullitt and the GT PP2 out of the lineup, Ford goes so far as to bill the Mach 1 as the most track-capable 5.0. We headed to Willow Springs International Raceway to verify that claim, and we learned that although the Mach 1 isn’t perfect, it’s fast, it handles surprisingly well, it’s comfortable enough for a commute, and it looks pretty cool, too.

Answering the call to speed is a 480-hp version—20 more horses than the standard GT—of the port- and direct-injected 5.0-liter V-8 from the Bullitt. Unlike the Bullitt, the Mach 1 utilizes Tremec’s TR-3160 six-speed manual transmission borrowed from the GT350 instead of the GT’s Getrag-built box and will also offer a 10-speed automatic ($1595) that wasn’t available in the Bullitt. For drivers still perfecting their craft, the Mach 1 features automatic rev-matching downshifts—purists will be happy to know it can be shut off. Those looking to squeeze an extra tenth out of their times will like the six speed’s no-lift-shift feature that allows you to keep the accelerator pinned during full-throttle upshifts.

Full story: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a36030144/2021-ford-mustang-mach-1-drive/