Ford reveals Mustang Dark Horse with 500 horsepower and handling upgrades
The Blue Oval has also unveiled a new 500bhp Dark Horse Edition built for those who will be using their car on the track. Said to be the first new performance nameplate since the Bullitt was introduced 21 years ago, the new variant was created to bridge the gap between the Mustang Mach 1 and its ferocious Shelby GT350 and GT500 twins. Sharing the same 5.0-liter ‘Coyote’ V8 as the standard Mustang GT, the Dark Horse gets a new software map and forged internals – including the connecting rods from the 760-hp GT500 – to help it produce 20 more horsepower than the standard volume. To improve durability and keep cool during hot track sessions, the Dark Horse features NACA brake cooling vents, an auxiliary engine cooler, a rear differential cooler, and a lighter cooler that, combined with more powerful fans, boosts thermal performance. A handling package is also available, adding stickier Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS rubber, stiffer springs, thicker front and rear anti-roll bars and different dampers. Six-pin Brembo calipers clamp down on 13.9-inch discs. Pricing is expected to start at $60,000 (£52,000), but there is no confirmation that it will be offered in the UK. In the US, two track-only versions will also be offered – the Mustang Dark Horse S and Dark Horse R. The S has been stripped of all luxuries, replaced by an FIA-certified roll cage, safety nets and a fire suppression system. Under the skin, a racing-spec exhaust and adjustable suspension have been added. A new rear spoiler features at the rear to enhance downforce.
