2021 Ford Mustang: Ultimate In-Depth Guide

History, Specs, Options, Performance & More

2021 Ford Ecoboost Mustang

2021 Ford Mustang

2021 Ford Mustang Overview

For more than five decades, the Mustang has served as Ford’s flagship performance car, dominating both street and track along the way. During its tenure, the Mustang has only grown in popularity, due to its reputation as a moderately priced powerhouse, ripe for fulfilling the dreams of performance buffs the world over.

The 2021 Mustang certainly lives up to the line’s hearty reputation and is offered in a number of output-rich derivatives. From the sporty 310 HP Ecoboost Fastback to the all-powerful supercharged GT500, Ford left no stone unturned when rounding out the 2021 Mustang’s model lineup.

Perhaps of most significance, is Ford’s resurrection of the Mach 1 package, which pairs the 2021 Mustang with a robust 480 HP, 5.0-liter Coyote V8, as well as a host of steering and suspension upgrades. This performance-minded pony car serves as the perfect middle ground between Ford’s base GT and GT500 offerings.

Model 2021 Ford Mustang
Generation 6th Generation Mustang
Type 2 Door
Body Styles Fastback, Convertible
Engines 2.3L EcoBoost, 5.0L Ti-VCT V8, 5.2L Cross Plane V8 Supercharged (GT500)
Original Price $27,155 (Base Fastback), $32,655 (Base Convertible)
Units Produced TBD
2021 Ford Ecoboost Premium
Photo Credit

Background & Details

For the 2021 model year, Ford set out to provide consumers with a Mustang for every perceivable need. The manufacturer expanded upon its prior offerings, which now span the gamut, in terms of both price and performance.

At the base end of the 2021 Mustang model lineup is the Ecoboost Fastback, which is offered at a price that is largely comparable to that of most mid-size sedans, yet is still representative of the line’s performance-inspired heritage. Building upon the groundwork laid by the base-Fastback model is the 2021 GT Fastback, which sports a 5.0-liter Coyote powerplant capable of churning out 460 HP.

On the more formidable end of the spectrum, is the newly resurrected Mach 1, complete with a high-output version of the GT’s 5.0 Coyote engine. The Mach 1 comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and carries a rated output of 480 HP.

At the upper echelon of performance, as well as price, is the GT500. The 2021 GT500 comes equipped with a supercharged 5.2-liter V8, which produces 760 HP, as well as 625 lb.-ft. of torque. In an outright display of power, initial testing has proven the 2021 GT500 capable of posting sub-4-second 0-60 MPH times, as well as ¼ mile times of only 11.4-seconds.

Noticeably absent from the 2021 Mustang lineup is the year’s “Bullitt” trim, which appears to have been retired for the time being. However, the void left by the earlier Bullitt’s departure is set to be filled quite adequately by this year’s reincarnation of the famed Mach 1 Mustang.

Special Edition Models & Variants

EcoBoost Fastback/Convertible

The 2021 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Fastback provides potent performance at a surprisingly economical price point. Starting at $27,155, the 2021 Ecoboost Fastback comes equipped with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder powerplant, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. This pairing produces 310 HP, as well as 350 lb.-ft. of torque. The Fastback also features its share of luxurious amenities, including a Wi-Fi-equipped 4.2” touchscreen infotainment system.

Fastbacks optioned with Ford’s Performance Package come equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, as well as a limited-slip rear differential. Also offered is a 101A equipment package, which features a large 8.0” touchscreen infotainment system, an interactive Drive Mode controller, and a set of 18-inch wheels.

When designing the 2021 Mustang Ecoboost Fastback, Ford kept driver safety squarely in mind. In fact, the Ecoboost Fastback earned the National Highway Safety Administration’s coveted 5-Star crash test rating. This variant of the 2021 Mustang also comes standard with automated emergency braking and blindspot monitoring capabilities.

EcoBoost Premium Fastback/Convertible

The 2021 Mustang Ecoboost Fastback can be optioned to include Ford’s additional Premium trim package. This package includes a significant number of amenity-related upgrades, which enhance the Ecoboost Fastback’s elegance, both inside and out.

This package includes the following:

  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Power-adjustable driver’s seat
  • 8-inch touchscreen
  • Nine-speaker audio system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
  • Upgraded interior materials
  • Partial leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Interior ambient lighting
  • 18-inch wheels
  • Heated mirrors
2021 Mach 1
Photo Credit

GT Fastback

Also offered at a reasonable price point, is the 2021 Mustang GT Fastback. This variant of Ford’s famed pony car retails at a starting cost of $36,120 and offers consumers plenty of bang for their buck. The GT Fastback is powered by Ford’s now infamous 5.0-liter Coyote V8, which produces 460 HP and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 2021 GT Fastback comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing drivers with an ample dose of classic appeal. However, consumers can also option the GT to include a refined ten-speed SelectShift automatic transmission if they so choose.

The GT trim package includes the same base features that are found in conjunction with the Ecoboost trim. However, Mustangs within the GT format also come equipped with 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, rear parking sensors, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.

GT Premium Fastback/Convertible

Within the GT trim, the 2021 Mustang’s optional Premium package offers a number of additional upgrades, which are performance-oriented, as well as comfort-related in nature.

This package includes the following:

  • Pony projection lights
  • Rear diffuser
  • Ambient lighting with 4.2 inch instrument cluster
  • Dual zone electronic climate control
  • 8” infotainment screen
  • Stiffer tuned suspension
  • 19-inch wheels with performance tires
  • Brembo brakes
  • Sport suspension
  • Torsion limited-slip differential
  • 10-speed auto transmission
  • Selectable drive modes

Mach 1

For the 2021 model year, Ford has revived one of the most iconic and revered of its prior Mustang model derivatives. Fresh out of retirement, and offered in limited quantities, is the famed Mach 1 package. In this format, the 2021 Mustang blends stellar handling capabilities and unparalleled straight line performance, to offer consumers a thrilling experience behind the wheel.

The 2021 Mach 1 features an upgraded version of the GT trim’s 5.0 Coyote V8 powerplant, which produces an overall output of 480 HP. This engine comes mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or optionally, a ten-speed SelectShift automatic. The Mach 1 also comes equipped with many of the same performance features that are offered on an optional basis, in conjunction with the GT package, as well as a set of specially tuned MagneRide adaptive shock absorbers.

The Mach 1 treatment also extends to the Mustang’s appearance, which serves as an obvious nod to the package’s initial iteration in the 1960s/70s. The most obvious of these cosmetic upgrades include the addition of a custom front fascia, as well as black striping along the car’s sides and hood.

Mach 1 Premium

In its Mach 1 Format, Ford’s Premium package centers around the addition of aerodynamic body paneling, as well as upgraded steering/suspension hardware. Springing for the Premium Mach 1 package will also present consumers with additional paint and interior trim options.

This package includes the following:

  • Option of Fighter Jet Gray Exterior
  • Recaro Cloth Sport Seats
  • 19-inch Dark Tarnished painted aluminum wheels
  • Michelin 2 Tires
  • Adjustable Top Strut Mounts
  • Front Sport Bumper
  • Blade decklid spoiler
  • Rear split bench folding seat
  • Selectable drive modes
2021 Ford Mustang GT500
Photo Credit

Shelby GT500

The 2021 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 serves as a true testament to how far the iconic pony car has come. This high-output Shelby not only pushes the performance envelope, but serves as Ford’s most powerful production car to date. This comes on behalf of the GT500’s supercharged 5.2-liter V8, which churns out 760 HP, and 625 lb.-ft. of torque.

Interestingly enough, the 2021 GT500 is not available with a manual transmission, and instead comes standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, do not be fooled into thinking less of the GT500 for its lack of a manual gearbox, as early reports have been filled with praise toward the responsiveness of the car’s seven-speed automatic.

Outside of its obvious merit as a tenacious straight line performer, the 2021 GT500 is widely known for its stellar handling capabilities. While the GT500 already comes standard with a host of premium steering and suspension upgrades, one can also spring for the addition of Ford’s Carbon Fiber Handling Package. This package includes 20-inch carbon fiber wheels, adjustable strut-top mounts, and additional aero elements.

Specifications, Options & Detailed Stats

2021 Ford Mustang Production Numbers

2021 production numbers haven’t yet been published, at this time.

2021 Ford Mustang Options and Pricing

The base 2021 EcoBoost Mustang continues to be of great value at $27,155. The GT Fastback is also still a great bang for your buck, coming in at $36,120. The sleek Mustang Mach 1 commands a price tag of $52,720. The priciest Mustang is the 2021 Shelby GT500 priced at over $72,000.

Grouping Description Retail Price
Base Model 2 Door EcoBoost Fastback $27,155.00
Base Model 2 Door EcoBoost Premium Fastback $32,175.00
Base Model 2 Door EcoBoost Convertible $32,655.00
Base Model 2 Door GT Fastback $36,120.00
Base Model 2 Door EcoBoost Premium Convertible $37,675.00
Base Model 2 Door GT Premium Fastback $40,120.00
Base Model 2 Door GT Premium Convertible $45,620.00
Base Model 2 Door Mustang Mach 1 $52,720.00
Base Model 2 Door Mustang Mach 1 Premium $54,315.00
Base Model 2 Door Shelby GT500 $72,900.00

2021 Ford Mustang Exterior & Interior Colors

2021 Ford Mach 1 Interior
Photo Credit

The 2021 Ford Mustang is available in the following 10 colors: Shadow Black, Oxford White, Velocity Blue, Iconic Silver, Race Red, Rapid Red, Twister Orange, Grabber Yellow, Antimatter Blue, and Carbonized Gray.

The car’s interior is available in the following colors or color combinations: Ceramic, Dark Ceramic, Ebony, Ebony/Metal Gray Stitch, Ebony/Red Stitch, Midnight Blue/Grabber Blue Stitch, and Show Stopper Red.

2021 Ford Mustang Engine Specifications

The 2021 Mustang is offered with a total of five individual engines, each of which corresponds to a specific trim package. The output of these engines range from 310 HP to 760 HP, and 350 lb.-ft. to 625 lb.-ft. of torque. This range in performance allows consumers to select the level of output that they desire, at a multitude of available price points.

Engine Name Fuel Power (hp@RPM) Torque (lb/ft@RPM)
2.3L EcoBoost Direct Injection 310 @ 5,500 RPM 350 lb/ft @ 3,000 RPM
2.3L EcoBoost

High-Performance

Direct Injection 332 @ 5,500 RPM 350 lb/ft @ 3,000 RPM
5.0L Ti-VCT V8 Dual Fuel Injection 460 @ 7,000 RPM 420 lb/ft @ 4,600 RPM
5.0L Ti-VCT V8 Dual Fuel Injection 480 @ 7,000 RPM 420 lb/ft @ 4,600 RPM
5.2L Cross Plane V8 Port Fuel Injection with twin High Flow Pumps 760 @ 7,000 RPM 625 lb/ft @ 5,000 RPM

2021 Ford Mustang Dimensions & Weight

There are only minor differences between the base Mustang models and the Shelby GT500 model, in regards to weight and overall dimensions.

Description Mustang Fastback Mustang Convertible Mustang Shelby GT-500 Mustang Mach 1
Wheelbase 107.1 inches 107.1 inches 107 inches 107.1 inches
Exterior Length 188.5 inches 188.5 inches 190.2 inches 188.5 inches
Exterior Height-

Fastback

54.3 inches 54.3 inches 54.3 inches 54.3 inches
Width Excluding Mirrors 75.4 inches 75.4 inches 76.6 inches 75.4 inches
Trunk Capacity 13.5 cu.ft. 11.4 cu.ft. 13.5 cu.ft. 13.5 cu.ft.
Curb Weight

(manual/auto)

3,492 / 3,512 lbs 3,636 / 3,656 lbs 3,730 / 3,752 lbs 3,868 / 3,913 lbs
2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1
Photo Credit

2021 Ford Mustang Performance

Below we have 0-60 mph, top speed, and quarter-mile times for the 2021 Mustang range. As shown by the numbers below, the GT500’s performance superiority is undisputed, making it one of the most potent of all American performance cars for the 2021 model year.

Variant 0-60 mph (sec) Quarter Mile Top Speed
2021 Ford Mustang EcoBoost/Premium 5.1 seconds 13.6 seconds 155 mph
2020 Ford Mustang GT & Premium Fastback 4.2 seconds 12.7 seconds 155 mph
2021 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 3.6 seconds 11.4 seconds 186 mph
2021 Ford Mustang

Mach 1

4.2 seconds 12.6 seconds 163 mph

2021 Ford Mustang VIN Information

The VIN information for the 2021 Mustang has not been released. However, below is an example of the 2020 Mustang Vin DeCoder chart.

This link will take you to a page that contains the VIN tag information for all years of Mustangs. Previously this information appeared on each Mustang’s year page but consolidating it has significantly reduced page loading times.

2021 Ford Mustang Videos

We managed to find some great video reviews of the 2021 Mustang, so definitely check those out.