2021 Mustang Mach 1 Will Return with 525 Horsepower

Surpassing the Bullitt’s numbers, Ford is upping power and performance with the upcoming Mach 1.

Ford recently confirmed that yes—after 17 long years—the 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is set to return. And while that itself is reason to celebrate, word on the street is that it is rocking some serious numbers.

So what can we expect? The folks over at Ford Authority reported that they were contacted by sources affiliated with the 2021 Mach 1. These sources tell them that Ford is aiming for the naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 Mach 1 to make 525 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. That marks a increase over the Bullitt, which produces 480 horsepower. And it would give the stock Mach 1 an additional 75 horses over the Mustang GT.

If this is correct, it certainly gives credence to Ford Authority’s assertion that the Mach 1 will ultimately be a replacement for the Shelby GT350, which is set to end production at the end of the year. Powered by a flat-plane crank 5.2-liter Voodoo V8, the GT350 turns out 526 hp and 429 lb-ft. With comparable output, it does nicely position the Mach 1 for the market.

However, as of now, there are no deets on how they plan to boost the 5.0 Coyote. And the camouflaged pictures released by Ford don’t give us a lot in terms of design, increased aerodynamics, etc. It looks like a proper Mustang should. And has ample muscle in addition to its track-ready stance.

Certainly, one thing is clear to us: Ford is coming in hot with the Mach 1. The Blue Oval has been putting a lot behind the debut. While we expected Mustang-caliber performance, surpassing the Bullitt’s specs was definitely a surprising result.

Output and numbers are obviously not the only aspect driving the Mach 1. All things considered, we love the Mach 1 for its performance, not just its ponies. It stands as an important and groundbreaking Mustang. The last generation Mach 1 Mustang came out in 2004, so it is long overdue for a refresh. And now, more proof that the 2021 Mustang Mach 1 edition–head of the 5.0-liter Mustang class–is coming back with a vengeance.

Stay tuned!

Photos: Ford

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S.J. Bryan

Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.