Sam Krahn 
Earlier this summer, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 debuted as the most track capable Coyote V8 Mustang yet. Along with its great retro styling, the Mach 1 is sure to be a hit amongst Mustang fans and car enthusiasts. But Ford wants to be sure the Mustang Mach 1 is more than just a styling package, so they have been track testing it around the Nurburgring in Germany. With a YouTube channel Automotive Mike, we have video of the mighty Mach 1 in action around the Green Hell to prove it.
Specifically, the video has two Mustang Mach 1s testing on the ‘Ring, a yellow and a gray car. Both appear to be the more basic Mach 1, as they lack the Handling Package with more aggressive aero that gives a larger rear wing, splitter and more. It also sounds like these two are automatics based on the shift speed, and the Handling Pack is manual-exclusive.
In the video, the Mustangs are driven in a spirited manner, but not pushed to the absolute limit. Still, they look composed with high grip levels and not much body roll. They also sound fantastic, as any Coyote V8 does. They also happen to look fantastic in their retro color scheme. These testers are also sporting the clear euro spec taillights, an interesting difference from the red units we are used to in America. This would also more or less confirm that the ultimate Coyote Mustang is in fact headed to Europe.
Overall, seeing the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 in action proves it should accomplish its goal of slotting in between the standard Mustang GT and the more aggressive and expensive Shelby GT350. It’s 5.0 liter V8 pushes out 480 hp, and features many cooling improvements to be more at home on the track. Even the base Mach 1 makes 22 percent more downforce than a Mustang GT with the Performance Pack Level 1, and the optional Handling Package bumps that up to a massive 150 percent increase. The Mach 1 also gets the excellent Michelin Pilot 4S tires as standard, while Handing Package cars get Sport Cup 2 rubber.
