New track-focused Mustang to have more grunt than Shelby GT350R

Ford is working on a new track-focused Mustang that will pack one hell of a naturally aspirated V8 punch.

Set to be badged as the Mach 1, the new variant was initially expected to just be a limited-edition replacement for the outgoing Bullitt.

However, it seems the new pony car will be more than just a sticker pack, and actually fill the shoes of Shelby’s atmo hero, the GT350R.

A report from Ford Authority that cites “sources familiar with product plans” claims engineers for the Mach 1 ’Stang are aiming for power figures in the region of 390kW and 610Nm.

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As a frame of reference, the standard 5.0-litre GT Mustang has 339kW and 556Nm when sold in Australia. The Bullitt that the Mach 1 replaces had just an extra 6kW over the regular GT, and the exact same torque figure.

Despite commanding an almost $11,000 premium over regular GT models, the Bullitt was extremely popular in Australia with all available models selling out rapidly.

The most powerful naturally aspirated V8 Mustang currently sold by Ford is the Shelby GT350R, which utilises a flat-plane crank 5.2-litre V8 putting down 392kW and 582Nm – so a couple of extra kW compared to the rumoured Mach 1 figures, but 28 fewer Nm.

Unlike the Shelby, the new Mach 1 will utilise the standard Modular Family 5.0-litre Coyote engine. Asking that atmo engine to produce an extra 50-ish kW will be a significant challenge for Ford’s engineers.

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It’s rumoured that new camshafts and heads will be recruited to get the Coyote making nearly 400kW reliably, without the aid of forced induction.

Being a track-focused variant, it’s not just the engine coming in for a refresh. The Mach 1 is expected to roll on sporty rubber (likely Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s), wrapped around 19-inch rims in meaty 305/30 specs.

Spy photos released by Ford confirm new aero additions, including a distinctive front bumper with twin circular air intakes, and a rear lip spoiler.

No suspension changes have been confirmed, though it’s likely stiffer, more track-focused springs and dampers will be utilised compared to the regular GT.

While there’s been no official word on whether the Mach 1 will arrive in Australia, Wheels understands the new model will head our way to appease our ravenous Mustang-hungry market.

If the rumoured outputs are accurate, the new Mach 1 will be an absolute riot.

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