Auckland, New Zealand, 22 Oct. 2020 – Mustang fans will celebrate that the limited-edition, high-performance Mustang Mach 1 will be available to customers for the first time in 2021. The high-performance icon is the best-handling production Mustang to reach New Zealand shores.
Sharing some features with the Mustang Shelby GT350, the Mach 1 will be the most track capable production Mustang available in New Zealand. Performance is boosted to a level worthy of the iconic Mach 1 moniker with enhanced aerodynamics, a specially-calibrated 345 kW 5.0-litre V8magneride-bwi-group engine and uprated cooling for improved track capability.
The Mach 1 is also the first production Mustang available in New Zealand with a high-performance TREMEC six-speed manual transmission, featuring rev-matching technology for seamless down-shifts and an upgraded oil-cooler system for high-demand performance driving. Customers can alternatively specify Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, featuring an upgraded oil-cooler and recalibrated software for optimised performance in road and track driving conditions.
A unique suspension setup further enhances road performance and track-readiness. Specially-calibrated MagneRide®magneride-bwi-group dampers and bespoke springs, anti-roll bars and bush specifications deliver improved control and response under high cornering loads. Retuned electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) software enables the Mach 1 to offer the most precise steering of any Mustang in New Zealand.
The result is the fastest production Mustang around a track ever offered to customers in New Zealand.
In addition to its performance credentials, the Mustang Mach 1 brings exterior design that recalls the iconic Mach 1 Mustangs of the 1960s and 1970s, with bold bonnet stripes, performance-derived body-styling and unique 19-inch alloy wheels. The limited-edition model is available in a unique set of five body colour, stripe and contrast-line combinations, echoing the distinctive design of the original car.
“Following the success of Mustang BULLITT, we are very excited to introduce this highly capable, track ready Mustang to our Mustang fans. The unique styling pays homage to the original model and is more than worthy of its legendary badge,” said Simon Rutherford, Managing Director, Ford New Zealand.
Iconic V8 muscle
The Mustang Mach 1 features a 345kW version of Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 all-aluminium petrol engine – specially modified for improved performance both on the road and on track.
An Open Air Induction System, intake manifold and 87 mm throttle bodies are shared with the Mustang Shelby GT350 model available to Ford North America customers, increasing the free flow of air into the engine. The enhanced breathing works alongside recalibrated engine management software and a combination of low-pressure port fuel injection and high-pressure direct fuel injection for a “reward-to-rev” character and 7,500 rpm red line. Peak power is delivered at 7,500 rpm, with peak torque of 556 Nm delivered at 4,600 rpm.
An auxiliary engine oil-cooler, also shared with the Shelby GT350, works in partnership with a new engine oil filter adaptor to ensure optimum oil flow and consistent performance under high loads. The Mach 1’s uniquely tuned Active Valve Performance Exhaust features quad 4.5-inch tips to further enhance the unmistakable Ford V8 sound.
A choice of transmission options is designed to maximise performance, driveability and track capability. The TREMEC 3160 six-speed manual transmission uses a twin-disc clutch to comfortably manage aggressive, high-rpm gear-changes on track, and provides a short-throw shift action for fast, consistent shifts that maximise Mach 1’s performance and fun-to-drive character.
The TREMEC six-speed transmission features rev-matching for smooth, seamless gear-changes that enhance refinement on the road, and performance on the track. The technology uses the engine’s electronic control system to briefly “blip” the throttle as the driver downshifts – matching the engine rotation speed to that of the gear that is being selected. Flat shift capability is also delivered – allowing drivers to engage the next gear without lifting the throttle pedal. The transmission’s enhanced performance is enabled in part using a dedicated oil-cooling system to cope with the increased demand.
Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission includes an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration for Mustang Mach 1, optimising torque capability, shift character and overall performance. A second air-to-oil cooler increases cooling capacity by 75 per cent to manage high-load driving situations. Manual and automatic models include an additional rear axle cooling system that further supports track driving and are also fitted with a limited-slip differential as standard, enhancing traction both in a straight line and when exiting corners.
In addition to a five-year, unlimited kilometre full factory warranty, the Mustang Mach 1 is eligible for the Ford Service Benefits program that includes the Service Loan Car Program, Roadside Assistance, and sat-nav map updates.
Ready to race
The Mustang Mach 1 benefits from a series of aerodynamic changes that bring performance gains as well as providing a distinctive look that pays homage to the styling of the original models.
A unique front-end configuration includes a new two-piece upper grille, new lower grille and splitter, and new side grilles: all contributing to the improved aerodynamic and cooling performance.
The Mustang Mach 1 creates 22 per cent more downforce than the Mustang GT, supported by a rear diffuser design shared with the Mustang Shelby GT500 model available to Ford North America customers, and a longer undertray that incorporates dedicated fins that direct cooling air to the brakes. The shape of the front splitter has been designed to deliver increased downforce for improved grip on track, while the bespoke, single-deck rear spoiler has been matched to the front aerodynamics to ensure the perfect lift balance from front to rear.
Bespoke suspension tuning is designed to cope with the high demands of track driving. The MagneRide® adjustable suspension system electronically controls the magnetorheological fluid inside the damper to respond in real time to changing road conditions and has been recalibrated for optimum performance alongside the stiffer front springs and anti-roll bars. In addition to the new EPAS calibration, Mustang Shelby GT350 and GT500 subframes and toe-link components contribute to the sharpest Mustang steering responses yet in New Zealand.
The Mustang Mach 1 also gains a higher specification brake booster with a faster response time, ensuring quick and consistent braking performance even under high loads. Unique five-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels are 0.5 inches wider front and rear.
Iconic design reborn
Distinctive, race-derived and aero-influenced styling has been a core component of every generation of Mustang Mach 1, enhanced with charismatic colour and decal combinations. Customers of the latest limited-edition model have a choice of five body colours, with bold bonnet and side stripe combinations including:
Mustang Mach 1 upper and lower front grilles are finished in gloss black, and the iconic Mach 1 logo appears on the rear deck-lid and on each front wing.
The interior is distinguished by Recaro leather sports seats which are standard for an additional level of comfort for the racing enthusiasts and a premium 12-speaker B&O Sound System.
While comfort and convenience technologies include Ford’s SYNC 3 connectivity system, a 12” digital instrument display cluster, and FordPass Connectfordpass-is-subject embedded modem for convenient connectivity.
“Mustang has won the hearts and minds of New Zealand drivers, and Mach 1 is one of the most thrilling Mustangs to date. This head turning model not only looks the part, but it has all the hardware to delight Mustang enthusiasts, offering on-track excitement and on-road driving pleasure,” added Simon Rutherford, Managing Director, Ford New Zealand.
Mustang Mach 1 Pricing
The Recommended Retail Price (RRP) for Mustang Mach 1 is as follows:
|
2021MY Mustang Mach 1 |
Recommended Retail Pricingrecommended-retail-price-only |
|
Manual Transmission |
$97,990 + On Road Costs |
|
Automatic Transmission |
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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification; mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected services. Ford employs approximately 188,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit corporate.ford.com
