2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse: A New Brawny Model Joins the Lineup
Ford took the centre stage just outside the Detroit Auto Show to unveil the new Mustang this week. During the event, the manufacturer introduced a new wild variant of its pony car, the Dark Horse.
This new model gets its own badge, as well as including a host of high-performance features aimed at charming hardcore Mustang fans. There are also S and R variants of the Dark Horse that are specifically built for the track.
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The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is powered by a special iteration of the Mustang GT's 5.0-litre Coyote V8, which includes connecting rods and pistons found in the in the current Mustang Shelby GT500 engine, and is mated to a Tremec six-speed manual transmission that's more robust than the Getrag gearbox found in the regular Mustang. Those who want to delegate shifting can still opt for the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.
A lighter radiator, brake cooling ducts, an engine oil cooler and an auxiliary cooler for the standard rear Torsen differential are also among the additions. The list of chassis-related upgrades is also quite extensive. Drivers will be able to count on oversized sway bars, as well as a set of Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers in the rear. Finally, power is transferred to the ground via 19-inch wheels (9.5 inches wide at the front and 10 inches at the rear) wrapped in Pirelli P ZERO tires.
The available handling package adds even larger sway bars, but also gets even wider 10.5-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels. Pirelli Trofeo tires are also part of the package.
Dark Horse S and Dark Horse R Competition Variants
The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse also comes in two versions designed specifically for the track. The Dark Horse S incorporates competition features such as an FIA-approved roll cage, safety nets, a racing seat with safety belts, a quick-disconnect steering wheel and a fire suppression system. On the outside, the car gets tow hooks, an adjustable rear spoiler and a host of other additions aimed at promoting aerodynamics.
The piece de resistance is undoubtedly the fully adjustable Multimatic DSSV suspension (assembled here in Canada). The Dark Horse R variant has all the ingredients of the S, but this one will be homologated to race in a variety of motorsport series around the globe. Both are stripped of non-essential components such as trim and insulation.
The 2024 Dark Horse Mustang pricing and availability details will be released at a later date.
