At the same time that Ford announced the arrival of an all-new generation of the Ford Mustang, it also announced the birth of an all-new performance version. The announcement, made as part of the Detroit Auto Show, highlighted the edition Dark Horsethe most powerful Ford-Mustang 5.0 liter V8 engine never marketed.
The most powerful Ford Mustang equipped with a “Coyote” engine
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is largely geared towards circuit driving. It starts under the hood, where the familiar 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine is housed. Here, this mechanic features a ton of exclusive components aimed at improving performance. A set of more robust camshafts, a forged crankshaft and a connecting rod arrangement borrowed from the more than capable 2022 Shelby GT500 are notably on the agenda. Thanks to a unique engine calibration, the Dark Horse promises to deliver power never before offered by a 5.0-liter Coyote engine. Ford didn’t give us an exact figure, but during the media unveiling Ed Krenz, Ford’s chief engineer, said the automaker was aiming for at least 500 horsepower.
This powerful V8 can be mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission or to the Tremec 6-speed manual transmission offered in the Mustang Mach 1. The possibility of opting for the latter will make many happy, since the manual transmission (MT82 ) found in the traditional Mustang GT has often been criticized for its lack of dynamism on the track. The Dark Horse Edition also features a shift knob inspired by the titanium exhaust found on Ford’s mid-engined supercar, the GT.
While the new-generation chassis is indeed largely based on that of the outgoing generation, Ford has pointed out that around 85% of the car comes from all-new parts. Every Mustang Dark Horse is equipped with recalibrated MagneRide shocks for the next generation chassis. An auxiliary engine oil cooler, rear axle cooler and lighter radiator help improve the car’s cooling capabilities. What’s more, a new badge is also affixed to the Mustang, while a horse facing us can now be seen on the front sides of the car.
For track enthusiasts
You can also opt for the Performance package, and you’ll get improved chassis settings, beefier rear stabilizer bars and a beefier set of shock absorbers up front. A Torsen-type rear differential provides some balance out of corners, while 19-inch wheels shod in Pirelli P-Zero PZ4 tires work in tandem with a set of massive Brembo brakes.
If you still need more capability, Ford will also offer the Track package, which includes an exclusive rear spoiler and integrated Gurney flap. This option package offers greater aerodynamic downforce, stiffer shock absorbers, improved front and rear stabilizer bars and Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires. You can even opt for a set of carbon rims.
Ford will also market two variants exclusively reserved for the track: the Dark Horse S and Dark Horse R. The S model will be equipped with a complete FIA-certified roll cage, safety nets, a racing seat with seat belts safety and a quick-disconnect racing wheel. The model will also be equipped with a set of Multimatic DSSV shock absorbers and Brembo racing brakes. The Dark Horse R version is even more radical and includes the same equipment as the S, but will be homologated by Ford for use in motor racing events around the world. These cars will also receive some additional welds for added strength as well as a racing fuel tank and Ford Performance rims.
Pricing for the Ford Mustang Dark Horse has yet to be revealed, and it will go on sale next summer.
