RC F Track Edition Battles Mustang Mach 1 In Interesting Comparison
Both of these cars have naturally-aspirated V8s, but do they share anything else in common?
Apples to Apples?
The Lexus RC F Track Edition has been well-received since its introduction in virtually every aspect, save for its somewhat lofty price tag. But with so few naturally-aspirated, V8-powered sports cars in existence these days, it doesn't have a lot of direct competitors. Thus, YouTubers The Straight Pipes recently decided to pit the Lexus coupe against a rather different vehicle, save for its choice of powerplant - the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1.
Pricey Proposition
In terms of pricing, there really is no comparison here. The RC F Track Edition starts out at a whopping $97,675, compared to the regular RC F's base price of $65,775. The Mach 1, on the other hand, costs just $53,400 for the base model. Of course, the Lexus has some pricey parts - like carbon-ceramic brakes - that you won't find on the cheaper Mustang.
Power Game
The Mach 1 also makes slightly more power, with its 5.0-liter Coyote V8 cranking out 480 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, compared to the RC F Track Edition's 5.0-liter V8's 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet. In this particular comparison, the Mach 1 is fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, though a 10-speed automatic is optional, while the Lexus is equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Looks and Sound
The exteriors of these cars are both styled quite aggressively, though the Lexus has pricier bits like its carbon fiber hood, titanium exhaust, and other lightweight components. Exhaust-wise, both cars sound awesome, as we'd expect from old-fashioned V8-powered machines, though the Mustang has a valved setup, so you can cruise through the neighborhood without drawing the ire of the HOA.
Differences In Feel
As one might imagine, the driving experience of these two cars is completely different. While the Mustang is fun and raw, the RC F Track Edition is more refined, according to our hosts, which isn't a surprise given the price tags and the fact that the Mach 1 is based on a car that's built to a price and often found on rental car lots.
Same but Different
Both cars have adjustable suspensions, so ride quality and performance can be tinkered with depending on what you're going for. Ultimately, both are fun to drive and great on the track, while the RC F Track Edition obviously has a far superior interior, particularly in terms of material quality. So the only question left to ask is, which one would The Straight Pipes buy if they had to choose?
Clear Winner?
In the end, both of our reviewers choose the Mustang because it's simply more fun, easier to obtain, and far cheaper. But they also admit that if the RC F Track Edition had a better transmission or if the Mach 1 was fitted with the 10-speed gearbox, the Lexus would be the pick here.
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