We can't wait ...
Dating back to its creation in 1969, the Ford Mustang Mach I has embodied the classic style, iconic design, and performance of an American muscle car. Mix in power, speed, and precision, and you’ve got a fastback coupe with the handling and suspension of the GT but with improved dynamics. In fact, the Mach I outsold the GT model.
Ford has now decided to bring back the classic muscle car for 2021. Mustang enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of this 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 engine backed by 480 HP. It’s inspired by the original Mach I with design elements of the Bullitt. It has a 6-speed manual Tremac transmission.
In a press release, Dave Pericak, director, Ford Icons, said …
“Mach 1 has a special place in Mustang history, and it’s time for this special edition to claim the top spot in our 5.0-liter V8 performance lineup and reward our most hardcore Mustang enthusiasts who demand that next level of power, precision and collectability. Like the original, the all-new Mustang Mach 1 will be true to its heritage, delivering great looks and as the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever.”
The original Mach I was created to bridge the gap between the Shelby and the base Mustang. It was designed for better performance than the Mustang GT and was more attainable than the Shelby and Boss models. At the time that the Mach I came on the scene, Ford already had two Shelby models and two Boss models.
Mustang Mach I Timeline
- 1969 — Creation of the Mach I
- 1971–1973 — Longer, larger, and more aggressive body with more powerful engine options
- 1974–1978 — Major changes included a smaller body and a hatchback model
- 2003 and 2004 — Modern power mixed with a nostalgic design for the first reboot
- 2021 — A new reboot returns with an updated design
Like its '60s counterpart, the 2021 Mach I will have lots of exterior graphics, including a hood applique and side stripes in matte black as well as front and rear spoilers. Satin black hood and side strips have reflective accent stripes to match the body color. Available Mach I body colors include Iconic Silver, Shadow Black, Oxford White, Velocity Blue, Twister Orange, Race Red, Grabber Yellow, and Jet Gray.
The 2021 Mustang Mach I is replacing the Ford Bullitt 2019 special edition model. While the final price tag hasn’t been announced, it’s expected to start around $50,000. The Bullitt came in at $48,900. You may remember that Steve McQueen drove a Bullitt in the film Bullitt.
The Mustang Mach I has shared its unique design and iconic good looks in movies and music videos like:
- The car in Keith Urban’s 2009 video “Sweet Thing” (and the inspiration for the song) is Urban’s 1969 Mach I.
- John Wick — They say it’s a Boss 429 but it’s a ’69 Mach I.
- Diamonds Are Forever — Yes, James Bond drove a red 1971 Mach I.
Are you looking forward to the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach I reboot? What year is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
