2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1

The Mustang is one of the best-loved sports cars in the USA, but it isn't the most powerful in its base guise. For that, you need a Shelby or, at least, a Ford Mustang Mach 1. This model draws inspiration from the original Mach 1 of '69 and borrows parts from the Bullit and GT350, with an engine that puts out a thrumming 470 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. More importantly, it comes equipped with a six-speed manual transmission that promises some of the most engaging driving you'll ever experience. Presented in two trims, there are few direct competitors to the 2023 Mustang Mach 1, but the BMW M2 and Dodge Challenger with R/T Scat Pack offer something similar in terms of performance. However, Ford's offering might struggle to match the refinement of its European rivals, so one has to wonder if it was worth the automaker's time and effort reviving the nameplate.

For 2023, the MSRP price of the Ford Mustang Mach 1 is $56,570 if you want the base model or $58,665 for the Premium trim. This does not account for any additional costs like tax, registration, or a destination charge of $1,395.

The Mach 1 is essentially a track weapon, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy it around town, too. It has decent on-road manners, with a suspension that soaks up most bumps in the road, though it definitely leans more towards sharper handling and control. Speccing the Handling Package furthers this agenda. Even in standard guise, the Ford coupe boasts an electronic line-lock, launch control, selectable driving modes, and selectable power steering. These driving modes include Normal, Snow/Wet, Sport, Track, and Drag Strip, while steering options include Comfort, Normal, and Sport, each altering the weight of the wheel accordingly.

Next up are the MagneRide dampers, heavy-duty springs, and six-piston Brembo brake calipers, all of which improve handling significantly. It can be hard to wrangle so much raw power, but these components do a great job. The dampers, for example, adjust up to 1,000 times per second, while there is up to 150% increased downforce when you opt for the Handling Package.

All of this combines to give you a truly exceptional driving experience that revolves around sharp steering, loads of grip, and a good amount of feedback. No driver should lack the confidence to have a little fun with the car, but even when you are just driving casually, you can be assured of some thrills and a good degree of comfort, though even in Comfort mode, there is a clear bias toward performance. Some road and wind noise can make its way into the cabin, too, though the overall build quality is pretty good.

You can review the Ford Mustang Mach 1 from one of two perspectives; it is either a poor replacement for the GT350 or a nice step up from the Bullitt. But, in our opinion, it is neither, and yet better than both at the same time. It definitely draws inspiration from these models, and while it might not have the Voodoo V8, it has more than enough power on tap, and it won't cost you nearly as much as the GT350. The Mach 1 also inherits the trick suspension and six-speed manual.

Furthermore, the coupe works well as a daily driver and has better practicality than your average coupe. The Dodge Challenger can give it a run for its money in this department, and it is quicker in a straight line. However, it lacks the dynamic handling of the Ford, which also comes outfitted with a fair number of standard features, especially if you opt for the Premium trim. It is a great car for the price, and even far more expensive models struggle to keep up with it where it matters.

The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 range consists of two trims, with the base coupe being the barebones performance car, while the Premium adds some quality-of-life tech that helps it better double as a daily driver, adding heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery, among others. Considering how small the price difference is, the upgrade is well worth it.