You were there: 1971 US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen
A drive in the woods: In autumn 1971, Fred Gerkens and some of his friends headed to Watkins Glen for the US Grand Prix and their first taste of F1.…
Fords don’t come from much further apart on the spectrum of power, price, positioning or engineering than those on this page, but having enjoyed the ‘standard’ Mustang Mach-E far more than I ever thought I’d enjoy any all-electric SUV, I was keen to try it’s terrific-looking super-powerful GT big brother.
But it has been a long time since I’ve driven a more disappointing fast Ford. Of course one must keep under close control what one expects of a 2.2-tonne electric SUV, even one with almost as much power as a Ferrari F40, more torque and a quicker 0-62mph time. It’s not going to handle like a Focus ST. And that’s fine. What’s not fine is the shockingly poor ride that goes with it, nor the abysmal feel from the brake pedal. The former spoils its otherwise fine credentials as a family wagon, the latter any hope that this might be a driving machine.
What is so strange is that Ford is usually so surefooted in such matters. Indeed if I were to back anyone to make an electric SUV worth driving I guess it would be Porsche first, but Ford wouldn’t be far behind. But not this time. It may have ‘MagneRide’ suspension and vast Brembo brakes but in this case neither is doing the car any favours at all. You’re better off by far saving thousands and choosing an excellent standard Mach-E with rear or four-wheel drive and the extended range battery. Rarely has less seemed more. Or vice-versa.
Price £66,280
Engine Front and rear electric motors, 88 kWh battery
Power 480bhp
Torque 634lb ft
Weight 2198kg
Power to weight 218bhp per tonne
Transmission Single-speed, four-wheel drive
0-60mph 3.7sec
Top speed 124mph
Range 310 miles (WLTP)
Verdict Go for standard (or Porsche)