Mustang Mach 1 vs Shelby GT350 Complete Comparison
Last Updated June 12, 2023 | Bill TumasAlthough the Mustang Mach 1 and GT350 might not seem similar at first glance, they are both built for pure performance. These two muscle cars have a shared reputation for power and handling, so we're going to take a closer look at them and see if we can find a winner! Learn about their history, specs, and how they handle.
Differences Between Mach 1 and GT350
| 2015 - 2020 GT350 | 2021 - 2023 Mach 1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.2-liter flat-plane crank engine | Gen 3 Coyote 5.0L |
| Engine Displacement (Liters / Cubic Inches) | 5.2L/315 | 5.0L/302 |
| HP | 526 hp @ 7,500 | 480 hp @ 7,000 RPM |
| Torque | 429 lb-ft @ 4,750 | 420 lb-ft @ 4,600 RPM |
| 0-60 | 4.0 Seconds | 4.2 Seconds |
| MPG | 16 Combined City/Highway | 18 Combined City/Highway |
| Base Model Starting Price (MSRP) | $61,635 | $52,915 |
| Base Curb Weight (Pounds) | 3,760 | 3,868 |
2015-2020 GT350 Specs
Let's start with the Shelby GT350. This Mustang has a 5.2-liter flat-plane crank engine with 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. It also has a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission and independent rear suspension with a 3.73 axle ratio. It comes equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential and MagneRide suspension. With 15.5-inch front and 15-inch rear brake rotors and six-piston and four-piston Brembo brake calipers, the GT350 has plenty of stopping power.
The GT350's wheels are staggered, with 19" x 10.5" in the front and 19" x 11" in the rear. There are also optional Recaro seats that fit perfectly with the performance-oriented interior.
GT350 Drawbacks
There were some issues with the GT350 early on, mostly concerning the engine. There were potential oil filter issues because of that flat-plane crank (some filters even became detached which then caused the cars to become fireballs).
Although other GT350 engines have had some problems with oil consumption, the car's engine still provides great performance. It has the highest redline of any Ford motor at 8,250 RPM and produces over 100 horsepower per liter.
2021-2023 Mach 1 Specs
In the other corner, we have the 2021-2023 Mustang Mach 1. When the Mach 1 was first released, a lot of enthusiasts were complaining that it was a parts bin car. In this case, that's not an insult - it's a compliment because Ford raided the right parts bins when they built the Mach 1.
Under the hood is a Gen 3 Coyote engine stolen from the Mustang Bullitt. It features the GT350 intake manifold and makes up to 480 horsepower with 420 lb-ft of torque.
The Mustang Mach 1 also got the transmission from the GT350, along with the subframes and oil cooler.
Ford went to the GT500 parts bin and grabbed the tow link, rear subframe, and differential cooler, making this an excellent performance car. If you opt for the handling package, you get the same MagneRide suspension that came on the GT350. Just like the GT350, the Mach 1 also comes with staggered 19" x 10.5" front wheels and 19" x 11" rear wheels.
Mach 1 Drawbacks
Although many drivers question the aesthetics of the Mach 1, Ford has said it might be the best handling car they've ever produced. One of the only commonly cited negatives to this vehicle is cosmetic. It features a unique front bumper with only minor graphics and interior upgrades over the stock GT.
GT350 vs Mach 1: Which Is Better?
So is one better than the other? That's up to the end user. You can't beat the sound of the 5.2 flat-plane crank, but you also can't argue against the rock-solid reliability of a Gen 3 Coyote.
Is the Mach 1 designed to be a replacement for the GT350? I wouldn't say a replacement. It’s more like a worthy successor.
This article was researched, written, edited, and reviewed following the steps outlined in our editorial process. Learn more about CJ's editorial standards and guidelines.
