What’s the difference between the 2021 Ford Mustang and Mustang Mach-E? These Ford models share more than a name, delivering muscle car performance in two separate packages. The Mustang is an iconic two-door coupe that offers nimble handling and a rumbling V8. The all-electric Mustang Mach-E borrows styling from the original Mustang but expands into a family-friendly midsize crossover. Ultimately, these models appeal to very different shoppers. Let’s take a closer look.
Price
2021 Ford Mustang MSRP Range: $27,155-$51,720
With its four trim models, the Mustang starts with the modern basics and piles on the luxury features as you move up the trim levels.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E MSRP Range: $42,895-$59,900
Compared to the Mustang coupe, the Mustang Mach-E comes standard with a more luxurious interior. It also includes a longer list of tech features and a roomier cabin (because it is, after all, a midsize crossover SUV). Its all-electric powertrain is also much more than efficient, delivering a muscle-car-like performance using battery alone. For all of these reasons, the Mustang Mach-E is the pricier model.
Muscle Car Performance
When it comes to performance, you can expect big things from both the gas-powered Mustang and the battery-powered Mustang Mach-E. In addition to power, both Fords deliver sharp steering and nimble handling.
The rear-wheel-drive Ford Mustang offers two engine, one for its EcoBoost trim models and one for its GT models:
- EcoBoost models: Turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (310 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque)
- GT models: 5.0L V6 engine (460 hp, 420 lb-ft)
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E’s overall performance varies according to which battery and trim level you select. Choose from five trim models:
Select:
- Standard RWD, with 230 miles of range; 266 hp, 317 lb.-ft. of torque
- Optional AWD, with 211 miles of range; 266 hp, 428 lb.-ft.
California Route 1:
- Standard extended-range battery, RWD with 300 miles of range; 290 hp, 317 lb.-ft. of torque
Premium:
- Standard RWD, with 230 miles of range; 266 hp, 317 lb.-ft. of torque
- Optional AWD with 211 miles of range; 266 hp, 428 lb.-ft.
- Optional extended-range battery, RWD with 300 miles of range; 290 hp, 317 lb.-ft.
- Optional extended-range battery, AWD with 270 miles of range; 346 hp, 428 lb.-ft.
First Edition:
- Standard AWD
- Extended-range battery for 270 miles of range; 346 hp, 428 lb.-ft.
GT:
- Standard AWD
- Extended-range battery for 250 miles of range
- Standard 480 horsepower, 600 pound-feet of torque
- Performance Edition makes 480 hp, 634 lb.-ft. (235 miles of range)
Fuel Economy
The Mustang’s fuel mileage varies according to a wide range of factors, such as engine and body style (coupe or convertible). The base turbocharged four-cylinder engine helps you combine speed with efficiency, however, earning up to 25 mpg combined (21 city/32 highway).
Instead of fuel, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E uses a rechargeable battery. To spend the most time on the road, choose the California Route 1 model. Its extended-range battery helps the Mustang Mach-E travel up to 305 miles between charges. The EPA rates electric models in terms of MPGe, miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent. The California Route 1 is rated for 101 MPGe combined (108 city/94 highway).
Comfort & Tech Features
The Mustang EcoBoost and GT models treat you to a modern cabin, with cloth seating and lots of high-tech safety aids. The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids, which includes forward collision mitigation and lane-keeping assist, is standard. The EcoBoost Premium and GT Premium models are more luxurious. They include leather-trimmed seats and the Sync 3 infotainment system.
Because it was designed to compete with upscale Tesla crossovers, the Mustang Mach-E comes standard with more luxury features. It also includes the latest version of Ford’s infotainment system, Sync 4. It upgrades your experience with a 15.5-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For an especially stylish cruise, add the panoramic fixed-glass roof.
Choose Your Ford Mustang
The 2021 Ford Mustang is as stylish and speedy as ever, delivering exactly the kind of performance you want from a muscle car. On the other hand, if you’re looking for all-electric performance and a family-friendly cabin, the Mustang Mach-E will also impress you with its style and speed.