The 2021 Mustang Mach 1 we have here uses the high-tune version of the latest generation 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine and here is mated to Ford’s rev-matching 10-speed automatic transmission.

The engine first arrived in the 2012 Mustang and has undergone a number of evolutions now in its third generation as of 2018. It now features both port and direct fuel injection to go along with new cams and a bore increase that makes it actually 307 cubic inches now instead of 302.

With a 12.0:1 compression ratio, dual variable cam timing and a 7,500 rpm redline, this is the most powerful 5.0 yet, here with 480 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.

Following the airflow, the intake charge starts behind the grille and comes into a open element style air-filter box. While the filter box is sealed against the hood underneath the driver side vent, it is blocked by insulation so not functional as one might expect.

Regardless of where air comes from, it then travels through a big-bore tube pas the mass-airflow sensor and into a single bore throttle body and into the composite intake manifold. Charge motion control valves inside the manifold manage the speed of airflow depending on RPM and engine load to maximize volumetric efficiency. You can see some of the control components at the rear of the manifold.

The fuel system for the port fuel injection is shrouded well and not all that visible, with decorative covers that say “Powered By Ford”, hidden themselves somewhat by the Mach 1 logo strut tower brace. The direct fuel-injection system is mostly hidden below the intake manifold and valve covers.

Looking at the valve covers you can see all eight coil-packs for the spark plugs. Exhaust manifolds are well hidden down underneath and hard to see, as is the alternator down under on the driver side.

Servicing the 5.0-liter Mustang is pretty straight forward with most all items within plain sight and easy access. The coolant reservoir is at the front of the engine compartment at the center. Next to it on the passenger side is the bright blue cap for the windshield washer fluid.

The main fuse box is found on the passenger side back toward the firewall and is easily opened for access to the fuses. The 12-volt battery resides just to the rear of it but is hidden underneath a plastic cover. Ford knows Mustang owners like to show their cars, the cover cleans things up nicely.

Checking oil is done on the passenger side of the engine, the yellow handled dipstick visible near the strut brace. There is no dipstick to check transmission fluid for the 10-speed automatic transmission. Filling the oil is done on the passenger side of the engine, top front.

Brake fluid can be checked and filled at the driver side rear of the engine compartment as expected. The ABS brake control unit is located just to the side of the master cylinder but is generally not user serviceable.

Around the engine compartment there are a few details notable such as the factory strut braces that reach between the firewall and towers. Driver side is keenly visible, the passenger side is hidden by the plastic battery cover. Here of course we have a well designed tower-to-tower brace the the Mach 1 logo on it – for function and those car shows.