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Reviving the past - Ford to bring Mustang Mach 1 back to life in 2021

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• Ford will launch a new Mustang Mach 1 in 2021

• The Mach 1 will be a limited-edition model

• Power to come from Ford's familiar 5.0-litre V8 engine

Come 2021, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 will make its return.

Now in its fifth-generation, the Mach 1 started life in 1969, five years after the original Mustang made its debut. This sports car bolstered the Mustang range, and will do so again in 2021.

Next year, Ford will pay homage to the 1969 model with a new Mustang Mach 1.

This limited-edition model will form part of the current Mustang range, much like the Bullitt, when it was launched alongside the rest of the range in mid-2019.

Dave Pericak, director at Ford Icons, says: "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 new Mustang Mach 1 will feature the famed naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that does duty in the 2020 Mustang GT and Mustang Bullitt. While power outputs are still unknown, expect the Mach 1's engine to send at least 331kW to the rear wheels.

Ford South Africa says that the Mach 1's local arrival still has to be confirmed.

Mustang overview

The Mustang Mach 1 debuted in 1969 and stood out with its GT handling suspension. According to Ford, the Mach 1 saw improved performance over the rest of the range and was more attainable than Shelby and Boss variants.

The Mach 1 saw a return in 1971 and was longer and larger than the first car. Ford also availed a raft of options to improve engine power by. In 1974, the next iteration of the Mach 1 arrived, but this time the car was available in hatchback guise. This car was in production for five years.

WATCH: When the blistering-fast Ford Mustang Bullitt meets some older SA cousins

It would be another 30 years before the next Mach 1 made its appearance. Standout elements of this 2003-2004 model were its large Brembo front-disc brakes, improved on-road performance, the matte black spoiler, and hood stripe.

Ford concludes: "The all-new 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is set to return as the most track-ready 5.0-liter Mustang ever, once again delivering design magic while adding to its performance legacy."

Ford Mustang Mach 1

1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1. Image: QuickPic

Compiled by: Charlen Raymond

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