New Ford Mustang Dark Horse
The Ford Mustang is one of the most iconic models in the American automotive industry, and each new version always generates great anticipation. The seventh-generation Mustang was released in 2015 and since then, it has undergone several upgrades to satisfy the brand's enthusiasts.
The latest variant of the seventh-generation Mustang is the Dark Horse, which is positioned as the most powerful road car ever with a 5.0-liter V8. This new version also marks the introduction of the first performance label for the brand since the arrival of the Mustang Bullitt in 2001.
The Mustang Dark Horse is a car that has been designed for heavy-duty track use, with significant improvements over other Mustang models. The car was in development for about three years, and Ford worked to make the Coyote V8 compatible with heavy track use. To do this, the engine received titanium connecting rods from the Shelby GT500 engine and dual throttle bodies. The power of this Dark Horse Mustang should reach or even exceed the symbolic 500 hp mark.
Visual changes
The Mustang Dark Horse is equipped with dark headlights, accompanied by a new black grille. The side skirts have been lowered, the rear spoiler, diffuser and exhaust tips are dark and new badges have been designed.
It is also available in a new color: Blue Ember metallic. Inside, the car has a suede steering wheel with indigo blue stitching and models with the 10-speed automatic transmission have anodized silver paddle shifters. The Appearance Pack adds Deep Indigo Blue seats for a sportier look.
Performance
Ford worked on the Dark Horse Mustang for about three years to make it compatible with heavy track use. To do this, the Coyote V8 received titanium connecting rods from the Shelby GT500 engine and dual throttle bodies.
The power output of this Dark Horse Mustang MkVII is expected to reach or exceed the symbolic 500 hp mark. The standard Tremec six-speed manual transmission includes a dedicated oil cooler and so does the automatic transmission with the included "Track Sprint" package.
The car also features brake cooling ducts, an auxiliary engine oil cooler, a rear axle cooler and a lighter radiator with more powerful cooling fans.
MagneRide shocks are also standard on this Dark Horse, along with reinforced struts and a larger rear sway bar.
Nineteen-inch wheels that are 9.5 inches wide up front and 10 inches wide in the rear, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tires, accommodate a set of Brembo six-piston front brake calipers.
The Handling Package
For performance enthusiasts looking for even more, the Handling Package is an additional option offering a new rear spoiler with an integrated flap, stiffer springs, thicker front and rear stabilizer bars and unique 19-inch wheels with wider Pirelli Trofeo RS tires.
Carbon fiber wheels will also be offered as an option. Ford says the release of Dark Horse marks the Mustang's return to motorsports with participation in a variety of world series such as GT3, GT4 and NASCAR.
In conclusion, the Dark Horse Mustang is a special version of the seventh-generation Mustang that is positioned as the most capable road car ever equipped with a 5.0-liter V8.
It also inaugurates the first new performance label for the brand since the introduction of the Mustang Bullitt in 2001. The car was designed for heavy-duty track use, with significant improvements over other Mustang models. Visual changes such as dark headlights, a black grille and a new Blue Ember metallic color give the car a sportier look.
Performance has also been improved with titanium connecting rods, dual throttle bodies, brake cooling ducts and an auxiliary engine oil cooler.
In addition, the Dark Horse has an optional Handling Package that adds features such as a new rear spoiler with an integrated flap, stiffer springs and carbon fiber wheels. All in all, the Dark Horse Mustang is an exceptional car for performance enthusiasts looking to make their mark on the road or track.