2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Review: Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts
While many dismiss it as a parts bin car, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is actually the greatest 5.0L Mustang ever.
One of the biggest criticisms levied against the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1, from the beginning, is that it borrows a bunch of parts from other models in the Mustang lineup, including the Shelby GT350 and GT500. The reborn Mach 1 also replaces three beloved models at once – the Mustang Bullitt, GT350, and Performance Pack 2. Add in the fact that the Mach 1 has to live up to its beloved predecessors, and to say that it has big shoes to fill, well, that’s a bit of an understatement.
Luckily, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is up to that task, and more, as Michael Palmer, editor of our sister site Ford Truck Enthusiasts, found out after spending some time behind the wheel of one recently. Palmer just so happens to own a 2013 Mustang Boss 302, so he’s able to provide an interesting perspective on the latest and greatest track-focused pony car, too.
Palmer’s loaner Mach 1 was a loaded example finished in striking Fighter Jet Gray – a Mach 1 exclusive – and boasted an as-tested MSRP of $65,340 – quite a premium over the car’s $51,720 base price. Options include the Handling Package, 10-speed automatic transmission, and a bunch of luxury items including leather and a voice-activated touchscreen. Regardless, this “cobbled together” parts bin creation didn’t fail to impress Palmer in his time behind the wheel.
“Overall, I loved every single minute with our loaner, but $65,000 seems like a lot of money for a Mustang lacking a Shelby badge and a 5.2L flat-plan-crank Voodoo V8,” he said. “Still, based on my time building the Mach 1 on Ford’s website, it’s relatively easy to get a Mach 1 for under $60K (plus tax and title). And spend enough time in one of these and it’s hard not to fall in love. In short, I’d argue it’s the best 5.0 Mustang of all time. It’s capable, super quick, and extremely well balanced… even if it lacks the specialness of the GT350’s motor.”
Depending on how you option out a new Mustang GT, it can be just as expensive as the Mach 1, which makes choosing between them an easy endeavor. It’s still considerably more expensive than the older Boss 302 but also features considerably more technology. It’s also more feature-laden (and perhaps more reliable) than the GT350, which makes it a compelling option.
“The 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is outstanding, on paper and in the real world,” Palmer concludes. “Comfortable around town and highway cruising. An absolute monster when pushed. And very capable at accelerating, turning, and stopping. It’s an exceptionally well-balanced corner carver and my pick for the greatest 5.0L Mustang of all time.”
High praise, indeed, especially coming from someone that’s driven quite a few Mustangs over the years. So be sure and head over to FTE to check out Palmer’s full review, especially if you’re considering adding a new Mach 1 to your stable!
Photos: Michael Palmer
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