Ford South Africa has announced the limited-edition Ford Mustang Mach 1 is headed to South Africa. The new Mach 1, which made its international debut 17 years since the “Mach 1” namesake was last seen on a Mustang, pays homage to the original of 1969.

To ensure its exclusivity, only 90 units of this special Mustang has been set aside for South African shores. Said Doreen Mashinini, general manager for marketing at Ford South Africa, “South Africans have an appetite for exclusive, limited-edition models … we are proud to extend the Mustang’s rich heritage with the launch of the Mach 1”.

Ford Mustang Mach 1
The new, limited-edition Mustang Mach 1 pays homage to the original of 1969.

According to the Blue Oval brand, the latest Mustang to wear the Mach 1 badge is the “most track-capable 5,0-litre Mustang yet”. The new Mustang Mach 1 features a “specially calibrated” version of Ford’s normally aspirated V8 engine. The 5,0-litre petrol powerplant produces 338 kW and 529 N.m. Two transmission options are on offer: a high-performance Shelby GT350-derived six-speed manual gearbox for “buyers that desire the most engaging driving experience” and 10-speed automatic transmission. Both transmission options, Ford says, have received numerous performance, cooling and calibration enhancements specific to the Mach 1.

Ford Mustang Mach 1
The “specially calibrated” normally aspirated V8 produces 338 kW.

For improved ride quality and handling, the new Mach 1 is equipped with Ford’s latest MagneRide adaptive suspension setup, stiffer sway bars and front springs, a rear subframe with stiffer bushings and a rear toe-link from the Shelby GT500, plus updates to the calibration of the performance-orientated electric power steering setup. The new Mach 1’s Shelby GT500-derived rear spoiler, meanwhile, generation 22 percent more downforce, Ford says.

Ford Mustang Mach 1
New front grille reminiscent of original Mustang Mach 1’s.

All of the 90 units destined for South Africa feature are painted in metallic Fighter Jet Grey body colour, with myriad “Mach 1” badging and orange accents featured on the exterior. The orange colour is carried over to the interior. The cabin features an updated version of Ford’s 12,3-inch digital driver’s display.

Ford Mustang Mach 1
19-inch five-spoke aluminium alloys are a modern interpretation of the classic’s Magnum 500 wheels.