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Optimizing the engine’s highly flexible characteristics, Ford engineers reworked the cams, modified the upper air intake (accommodating the ram air system) and added performance exhaust manifolds; all in all producing 310 bhp and 454 Nm of torque—50 bhp and 45 Nm more than the standard V8 Mustang. Handling all that power is a specially calibrated suspension system with Tokico struts and shocks. The variable-rate suspension offers a firmer ride, but gives better handling and improved response from the front MacPherson struts and semi-independent SRA multi-link rear. Like its exterior, it’s in the cockpit where the Mustang is starting to look aged. Still, to celebrate its 40th anniversary, cosmetic enhancements have been made, uplifting the otherwise dull cabin. The ‘comfort weave’ black leather seats is once again a salute to the original Mach 1, but the single DIN, 460-watt stereo system with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer guarantees to knock the socks off even the most discerning audiophile. The rear-wheel drive architecture, front-mounted engine and lack of advanced electronics save traction control, suggest that this isn’t an everyday car; after a blast in it around downtown Detroit, this suggestion will most certainly turn into a fact. The loud, burly exhaust obviously doesn’t help (it could be heard from the interior of our chase car, the Ford Thunderbird) but add to that the low driving position and small windows. The average family sedan this is most definitely not. That said, the Mach 1 is meant, like its namesake, to be driven hard and fast. Nail the throttle and see the speed pile up on the retro-styled gauges. The notchy gearshift and tricky clutch make for a test in hand-foot coordination, but if done right it will blur all scenery while igniting your soul with the soundtrack of American brawn and muscle. At the end of the day, as the Mach 1 zooms back from The Henry Ford Museum to the Ford World Headquarters, it’s hard to think that the Mustang is already forty. It has, and will always be Ford’s symbol of their commitment to offer truly stellar products at affordable prices. |
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