There is no denying that the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of the most important new models for the brand. However, since the release of the Mach-E, most have compared it to the Tesla Model Y. Given its status as an electric crossover, that comparison is fairly accurate. However, Muscle Cars and Trucks’ newest report suggests that Ford actually looked heavily at Porsche while developing its first all-electric crossover.

What is the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E’s purpose?

While the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E was released well after the Model Y was already killing sales figures, its development predates the Tesla. According to Muscle Cars and Trucks, there wasn’t another electric crossover available to test against the upcoming Mach-E. Despite its name, Ford reportedly never tested it against an actual Mustang. As a result, the American carmaker had to look toward the luxury crossover segment to find a suitable benchmark.

However, upon its release, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E didn’t just have to compete with only luxury crossovers. In fact, on paper, the Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y have plenty in common. The Ford starts at $42,895 and offers a base estimated electrical range of 230 miles. In contrast, the Model Y begins at $41,990 and provides a base estimated electrical range of 244 miles. Given their similar size and target audience, the Ford has a Tesla problem.

To the Mach-E’s benefit, the fact that it wasn’t compared to the Tesla may just be its greatest strength. Since the Porsche Macan is entirely different from the Model Y, it may just give the Mustang a unique edge.

Why is the Porsche Macan the main target?

The choice to develop the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E with the Porsche Macan as its benchmark is a great idea. According to Muscle Cars and Trucks, this was done primarily because the Macan is one of the most thrilling crossovers to drive. Additionally, being a Porsche, the Macan features excellent build quality and sound isolation. Since the Model Y has struggled with build-quality issues since its release, taking a note from Porsche creates a serious potential edge.

The best part of this comparison is that it yielded excellent results. According to Muscle Cars and Trucks, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E it tested left the reviewer thinking of a Focus RS rather than a family crossover. Additionally, the publication stated that it superseded most performance SUVs during its testing. As a result, the Mach-E may very well offer a more engaging and high-quality driving experience when compared to the Model Y. Unfortunately, we won’t know exactly until the two crossovers compete back to back.

How does this benchmark translate into the real world?

Despite a planned 2020 release date, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E isn’t widely available as of writing. However, pre-production models have been sent across the country to various reviewers to test. Above you will find a video review by TheSmokingTire on YouTube. In the video, the Mach-E goes to California’s canyons to see how it handles tight and twisty roads.

According to TheSmokingTire, the electric crossover managed to impress with its power, agility, and balance. However, keep in mind that this isn’t the GT performance trim level, which is expected to arrive later. As a result, the Ford has a real opportunity to carve a lane for itself as the best driving electric crossover if it can beat the Model Y.