Hot Wheels for Big People

Feb. 6, 2003
The Ford Focus Hot Wheels concept car based on the toys.

Mach 1 flashback

Muscle-car enthusiasts and those wanting to relive the '70s can now buy a restyled version of Ford's popular Mach 1 Mustang. But you'd better hurry if you're interested. Ford is only building 6,500 this year in its Dearborn Assembly Plant. The cars, which will be numbered, carry an all-aluminum MOD 4.6-liter V8 with four valves per cylinder. It puts out 305 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The engine has a 10.1:1 compression ratio and features specially calibrated camshafts, a modified upper intake to accommodate the ram-air system, a heated crankcase ventilation system, and performance exhaust manifolds. Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission.

The automatic has a brazed 11.25-in. torque converter to handle the engine's power. The vehicle is also 0.5 in. lower and rides on a firmer suspension compared to the Mustang GT. The performance-handling suspension includes new front and rear coil springs, gas-pressurized Tokico struts in front, stabilizer bars front and back, and additional frame-rail connectors to stiffen the body. Thirteen-inch Brembo front rotors and calipers provide stopping power. Exterior styling cues come from the Mach 1's 1969 namesake and include a "shaker" hood scoop, a front air-dam extension and rear decklid spoiler, both in black, and side scoops on the body.

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