Sam Krahn 
At first glance, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 may look like a retro special edition that simply takes the place of the outgoing Bullitt, but in reality, it’s so much more. The Mach 1 also replaced the much loved Mustang Shelby GT350, and comes with some serious track performance to live up to its role. Now that deliveries are underway, we’ve been itching to see how the Mach 1 really does on track, and a Mustang 6G Forum member has given us just that.
Before we get to the track driving footage, here’s the spec of the car. It’s a 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Premium painted in oh-so-cool Fighter Jet Gray, but without the optional Handling Package. The owner says its on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and they’ve optioned the upgraded wheels, which are an inch wider front and rear than the standard retro looking rims. Finally, it’s got the Tremec six speed manual transmission.
It’s a short video, and it doesn’t look like the driver is pushing too hard, but it keeps up with the BMW M2 Competition ahead with ease. You can read the owner’s full break down in their forum post, but they say the Mach 1 definitely more capable than a standard Ford Mustang GT, and obviously down compared to the Shelby GT500. The owner mentioned it’s faster than the GT, and louder. The Tremec transmission is vastly superior to the standard Mustang six speed, something we also already knew.
That Shelby comparison is interesting, as it seems like the Shelby is the more tied down and deliberate track tool, while the Mach 1 is lighter on it’s toes and more playful. This makes sense given the differences in tires, transmission, power output and aero package.
Finally, the owner mentions anyone who plans to track their 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 should probably wait for the Handling Package. As mentioned, this vehicle doesn’t have it, and while they said it does well on track, the upgraded aero, tires and camber setup would be hugely beneficial. The owner said they are upgrading the tires on their own. If you’re planning on mainly street driving your Mach 1, the regular car should be a great back road driver’s car.
Overall, it’s great to see people out using their Mustang Mach 1 as Ford intended, and we can’t wait to see more of these cars as they roll out.
