While not confirmed for South Africa yet, Ford has revealed the limited-edition Mustang Mach 1 for Europe. Its debut takes place at Goodwood SpeedWeek and is, according to Ford, the best-handling Mustang ever offered in Europe.
Even with a performance boost, the European version of the Ford Mustang Mach 1 will lose power to meet European emissions regulations. This does make the improvements less, but it doesn’t change that this is still the most powerful Mustang in Europe.
“The new Mach 1 is the most capable Mustang ever to reach Europe, with track-ready ability and a unique style that is more than worthy of wearing such a legendary badge.” – Matthias Tonn, Mustang Mach 1 chief programme engineer for Europe.
Old school style for the Ford Mustang Mach 1.
Ford has designed the Mustang Mach 1 after the models with the same name in the 1960s and 1970s with unique bonnet styling and side strips. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and the body, stripe and contrast line combinations come in eight unique sets that mimic the colours of the older models. Each car is also uniquely numbered indicating which production model each one is.
The cabin follows an ebony theme with darkened aluminium details. Leather finished sports seats also receive metal grey stitching while the dashboard features a Mach 1 logo and build number.
Ford tamed the monster for Europe.
Under the hood sits the monster naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 mated to a 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission that feature an upgraded oil-cooler. The power is all thrown to the rear wheels, but here is where Europe’s emission laws kick in.
The American Ford Mustang Mach 1 produces 358 kW and 569 Nm while the European model will make 338 kW and 529 Nm. Not much more than the GT Fastback we have here in South Africa.
Power numbers are not all that’s to a Mustang. Yes, we know some might disagree. Ford has promoted the Mach 1 as the best-handling Mustang in Europe and have done so with a few upgrades. There are specially-calibrated MagneRide® 2 dampers and bespoke springs, anti-roll bars and bush specifications.
Virtual Mach 1 experience.
If you are reading this on your mobile device, Ford has created a virtual experience of the Mach 1 that you can view right now. It will allow you to watch and create a video of the Mustang driving. While not the most exciting thing, this is a great way to see the colour combinations and have a little fun. To experience it, visit fordmustangmach1ar.com.
