454bhp Ford Mustang Mach 1 European deliveries commence
Ford has brought back the Mach 1 to the Mustang range after 17 years, and the first examples are now hitting our roads
Following its reveal last year, Ford has announced that first examples of its £55,185 Mustang Mach 1 are beginning to hit European roads. The most potent Mustang variant to be sold in the UK yet, it combines a powertrain derived from that of the GT with a range of chassis and cooling updates from the Shelby models, plus some bespoke styling elements.
Though powered by the same 5-litre ‘Coyote’ V8 engine as the GT, the Mach 1 features a range of ancillary updates which raise power from the standard GT’s 444bhp to 454bhp at a lofty 7500rpm; torque is also lifted to 390lb ft at 4600rpm. This extra performance has been liberated thanks to a re-booted ECU in conjunction with the intake manifold, engine oil cooler and upgraded cooling lines from the Shelby GT350.
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Predictably, straight line performance is strong with the 10-speed automatic sending the Mach 1 from standstill to 62mph in 4.4sec, just a tenth slower than the extreme US-only GT350. When equipped with the six-speed manual, the Mach 1 will cover the sprint in 4.8sec, going on to a 166mph top speed.
Both six-speed manual and ten-speed automatic transmissions are available, the former with a shorter throw, transmission oil cooler and auto-blip function. The auto has also been updated with a bespoke calibration. The Mustang’s electric power steering system has also been retuned, so too the standard-fit MagneRide adaptive dampers. Ford’s also applied stiffer rear-axle bushings from the GT500, stiffer anti-roll bars on both axles and a limited-slip differential.
The Mach 1 also picks up some bespoke styling elements, with a new front and rear bumper, new retro-inspired 19-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber, and bespoke graphic packs. An optional handling package incorporates a larger front splitter, rear wing, GT500-aping rear wheelarch Gurney flaps and a fresh wheel design, increasing downforce by 22 per cent over the ordinary GT. The faux grille-mounted spotlights are somewhat less authentic.
The interior also picks up some bespoke design elements, including a new trim accent on the dash, and the accessory dials found on the GT350 and GT500.
Order books are open now with pricing starting at £55,185 for the six-speed manual, rising £2000 for the 10-speed automatic.
