DEARBORN, Mich. - Ford Performance Mustang Design team debut a few subtle, yet important changes to the Mustang Mach 1.

Mustang Design team paid attention to the small details that matter
When Mach 1 cars begin appearing on roads and tracks this spring, Mustang enthusiasts – those with the most discerning powers of observation, anyway – may notice some differences from the images that were revealed.

That’s because the Mustang Design team continued honing the car nearly right up to the moment that Mach 1 production began at Flat Rock Assembly Plant. Sure, the differences are subtle – likely undetected by the casual observer. But in the Mustang world, every nuance serves a purpose.

“With any program, you want everything to be perfect, but when you’re bringing back a classic like Mach 1, it is imperative,” Anthony Colard, senior advanced designer, said. “This team just kept pushing and pushing for perfection.”

After a 17-year absence, Mach 1 returns for 2021 to signal a new pinnacle of 5.0-liter V8 pony car performance. Following the lead of the original 1969 Mustang Mach 1 that bridged the gap between the Mustang GT and Shelby models, the all-new model delivers V8 power, unique functional aerodynamic enhancements, competition-capable suspension upgrades and a driver-focused cockpit.

Before/After Section

Badging: This modern interpretation of the classic Mach 1 nameplate was updated with a silver border to help the badge better stand out against dark-colored exterior paint.

Lower grille: The team changed the lower grille from Magnetic Gray to low-gloss black to make the front end look “even more menacing,” according to Colard.

Fender striping: The overall shape of the front edge of the stripe was tweaked to improve quality and production processing.