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With its Tremec 6-speed manual gearbox and handling package, RacerX considers this Mustang Mach 1 to be as good as it gets.
While Ford’s reveal of the seventh-generation Mustang is dominating recent news, it will be almost a year until the S650 hits the streets. That means the current-gen Mustang is still very much relevant to enthusiasts. So, YouTube RacerX uses a recent video to dive into a 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1.
This isn’t an ordinary review, though. Instead, he dives into why having the Handling Package with the Mach 1 makes it the best Mustang you can drive today.
RELATED: Why The 2022 Mustang Mach 1 Should Be Driven By Every True Gearhead
RacerX informs viewers that he’s been searching for a Mustang Mach 1 to check out, but finding one with the optional handling package has been difficult. To his delight, he gets his hands on one and proceeds with the details.
The video is especially informative as he compares a base Mach 1 against one with the Handling Package. Perhaps the most striking visual differences are the front and rear ends.
The upgrade adds a massive dual-layer splitter to the front end versus a more modest arrangement with the standard setup. Likewise, the subtle and narrow decklid spoiler on the run-of-the-mill Mach 1 transforms into a more prominent wing with a Gurney flap.
RELATED: On-Track Fun With A Ford Mustang Mach 1 And A 760-HP Shelby GT500
With the demise of the Bullitt Mustang, Shelby GT350, and GT Performance Pack Level 2, Ford needed to offer something to bridge the gap between the Mustang GT and Shelby GT500. A point that RacerX emphasizes while highlighting the more drivable qualities of the track-oriented Mach 1 (with the Handling Package) over a Shelby version.
Part of this comes from the other add-ons of the Handling Package. Notably, this includes wider 19-inch tires, 305s up front, and 315s in the back—a substantial gain from the 255 and 275 widths with the base Mach 1. Improved chassis tuning and adjustable strut top mounts also help with drivability.
Underneath the hood of all Mach 1s sits an upgraded and naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 that relies on a different intake for a horsepower boost. But the 2021 model year is the one to get, as Ford detuned the engine for 2022 to meet emission requirements.
A 2021 Mach 1 has 480 hp, while the same car in 2022 has 470. Similarly, the Mustang GT also suffered an output drop (460 to 450 hp) during the model year changeover. With that in mind, RacerX thinks this Mach-1 is the perfect blend of track performance and a great daily driver.
Dave Goldberg is a lifelong auto enthusiast and holds a BA in Journalism from The George Washington University. While he leans towards European wheels for his personal driving, Dave gets excited about everything from Acura to Zagato.