Why The 2022 Mustang Mach 1 Should Be Driven By Every True Gearhead

2022-06-25 01:27:40 By : Archer Tan

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The legendary Mustang Mach 1 is back, designed for the street and approved for the track.

Numerous special performance variants of the Ford Mustang have been produced throughout the years, including a few unique vehicles that have proudly held their own names. From HiPos, Shelbys, and GTs, to California Specials, Bosses, Cobras, SVOs, and 5.0s, Cobra Jets, and Bullitts, each with its own design features and equipment. The Mustang Mach 1, a speedy fastback originally launched in 1969, is possibly the most well-known and affordable of the lot.

In terms of style, technology, and raw power, it was the best of the muscle car era. The 1969–1973 Mustang Mach 1 came to be known as the "everyman's muscle vehicle" due to a balanced set of technologies and performance. The Mach 1 was also produced for the 1974–1978 model years, followed by a lull that concluded with the powerful 2003–2004 models.

The reintroduction of the Mach 1 to the Mustang range in 2021 wrote a new page in the cherished model's history. Now, the 2022 model year brings us a completely redesigned version of the vehicle. Ford has finally added several high-end features to this Mustang, and every die-hard fan should drive it at least once in his life.

Related: Pros And Cons: A Used Shelby GT350 Vs A New Ford Mustang Mach 1

The 2022 Mustang Mach 1 stands out from the rest of the lineup thanks to several distinct features. The alloy wheel styles are exclusive to the Mach 1, and the front end's stunning double-O design will make you go faster. Without a doubt, this Mustang has been engineered to provide superior cooling and downforce.

An upsetting change from the 2021 model year is a reduction in the Coyota V8's power and torque, which have been put down to tougher emissions rules and are now only rated at 470 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. The 10-hp decrease also affects the GT, which now has 450 hp. The Mach 1's 5.0-liter V8 is still known as the Coyote, even though it is slightly more advanced than the normal GT's. The now-retired Bullitt had the same engine as this one, with 470 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. It produces an incredible sound thanks to a dual active-valve performance exhaust.

Rather than focusing on growing power, the automaker concentrated on cooling. The Mach 1 is promoted as a track tool and is equipped with all the components required for high-speed driving. Namely, it gets a bigger radiator, an open-air induction system, an intake manifold from the GT350, and coolers for the motor oil, gearbox, and differential. Ford also substitutes the GT's Getrag manual transmission with the more rugged Tremec six-speed manual found in the GT350.

The manual transmission of the Mach 1 has dubious rev-matching technology. Some enthusiasts consider these methods shameful, yet they are acceptable. Don't worry, though. Ford has given drivers the option to turn off this feature, so they can get used to how it works on their own. There's also a ten-speed automatic option. If you plan to drive the Mach 1 every day and just go to the track once in a while, the automatic transmission may be a good option for you.Related: Here's How Much A 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Costs Today

The Mach 1's cue-ball shifter is a tribute to the now-discontinued Bullitt. Overall, the ride is silky smooth, with quick shifts from one gear to the next. The Mach 1 comes standard with MagneRide dampers, hefty front springs, aerodynamics that maximize downforce, and six-piston Brembo brake calipers as standard equipment. You may choose between two Ford Mustang Mach 1 models, Base and Premium.

The base model features a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a six-way power driver's seat, keyless entry with push-button start, a leather steering wheel, and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a nine-speaker audio system. Meanwhile, the Premium variant comes with a few pleasant extras. Heated and ventilated front seats, a driver's seat memory function, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and aluminum foot pedals are among the features.

When designing your own Mustang, you may pick from nine colors. Shadow Black, Oxford White, Iconic Silver Metallic, and Dark Matter Gray Metallic are some of the most conservative selections. Race Red, Grabber Blue Metallic, Cyber Orange Metallic, Mischievous Purple Metallic, and Eruption Green Metallic are the bolder color options. In addition, every 2022 Mach 1 has a black racing stripe with either red or white highlights depending on the color of the vehicle's exterior.

To be honest, even before you drive it, the Mach 1's performance is clear. Although all Mustangs are beautiful, the 2022 Mach 1 was built to impress on the track. Sharp turns and exhilarating drives are at the core of the Mach 1's design, and it's built to last.

Adriana is a young car enthusiast who enjoys all things automotive. When it comes to cars, she has no problem chatting about them for hours on end. Her passion for automobiles only grew after she began working as an automotive writer a few years ago. And, without a doubt, she will not miss any car museums while traveling.