The Return of the Ford Mustang Mach 1 Set to return in 2021, after seventeen years the Ford Mustang Mach 1 is champing at the bit. As one of the most iconic models ever produced, featuring from 1969 onwards in James Bond films among others, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 needs no introduction. Late last year, Ford announced they would reinstate the legendary nameplate on their first all-electrical SUV model, the controversial Ford Mustang Mach-E. However, with the departure of the Bullitt, it seems the manufacturer wishes to concentrate on paying homage to the performance origins of the Mach name. The Mach 1, in effect, will replace the Bullitt as a limited edition, performance-oriented model. Unlike with the Mach-E, die-hard members of the Mustang gang will be glad to know this Mach model will very much feature a V8 engine. Also unlike the Mach-E, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is not destined for the mass market. One thing is for sure, however. If cars could procreate and the Ford Mustang Bullitt had a child with higher-performance Shelby variants, the Mach 1 would be it. Origin of the Mach 1 Meant to bridge the gap to the more exclusive Shelby models, the Mach 1 line holds a special place in Ford’s success history. Originally released in 1969 with upgraded handling for the arms race between muscle cars at the time, the first variant was a notch up from previous Mustangs (which were only around five years old at that point). The 2021 model will feature upgrades from the higher-performance Shelby GT350 and GT500. (Speaking of GT500, check out the one we have.) Stylish and unique in the handling, the line stood out even among Mustangs. Always conceived with the objective of performance, the very name of the line hints to how well it moves. The director of Ford Icons says the car is for “hardcore Mustang enthusiasts who demand that next level of power, precision and collectability.” Furthermore, the car will be true to its heritage and deliver looks as well as handling, especially track capability. What Can We Expect From The Return of the Mach 1? It will be limited production, available in dealerships from the spring of 2021, at a starting price of $50,000. Aspirated V8 performance (the usual for the Mach 1 nameplate). 5.0-liter V-8 pumps out 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque – the same output as the McQueen-inspired Bullitt. 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is available. Other options will include packages to make the car look and feel more aggressive, such as the Manual-Only Handling package Upgrades directly from Shelby GT350 and GT500. For instance, the Mach 1 will use the stout and reliable Tremec 3160 from the GT350, instead of the problematic and issue-prone Getrag MT-82, offering a superior transmission. Some aerodynamic shout-out tweaks to the original 1969 Mach 1. Because it will be 2021, we can expect ever-finer interior upgrades, along with upgraded brakes and augmented suspension. The GT350 will just about outrank it with a little bit more track experience, but the Mach 1 will out-perform the Mustang GT. Excited for the Ford Mustang Mach 1? Where do you stand with this newest addition to the Ford family? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. To browse the rest of our available cars, click here. Liked This Article? More Like This: The Ford Mustangs 1969 Versus 1970 Five Reasons You Should Buy A Classic Mustang