Driving the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse on the exhilarating track at Charlotte Motor Speedway is an experience that leaves any car enthusiast feeling like a professional racer. With the iconic V-8 engine roaring under the hood and the stadium seats in vibrant colors resembling a crowd, the adrenaline rush is unlike any other. It’s a moment that can be likened to the thrill of NASCAR’s Coca Cola 600 or the intense road racing skills of Boris Said.
The Dark Horse represents the pinnacle of seventh-generation Mustang performance, at least for now. While it may not draw from the Mustang’s rich history for its name, it certainly lives up to its legacy. In fact, it can be seen as an evolution of the 2021 Mustang Mach 1, equipped with even more power and a range of suspension upgrades for the S550-generation Mustang.
Underneath the Dark Horse’s hood lies a fourth-generation Coyote 5.0-liter V-8 engine that boasts the same enhancements as the Mustang GT. With a dual air intake and a combination of port injection and direct injection, this monster of an engine produces a staggering 500 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the addition of the active exhaust standard and the use of stronger connecting rods from the Mustang Shelby GT500, the Dark Horse gains an extra 14 hp, resulting in an even more impressive power output.
On the track, the Dark Horse’s V-8 engine performs flawlessly, providing a rapid acceleration that leaves a lasting impression. Paired with the Tremec 6-speed manual transmission, which replaces the GT model’s Getrag unit, the gear changes are smooth and precise. The Tremec transmission is more robust and features downshift rev matching, positive shift points, and a slightly weighty clutch pedal, making it the ideal choice for enthusiasts who crave an engaging driving experience. Alternatively, there’s also a 10-speed automatic transmission that has been updated to hold gears longer during performance driving, allowing drivers to focus more on navigating corners without the need to manually shift.
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Beyond the Dark Horse’s impressive straight-line performance lies its ability to excel on the road course. The S650-generation Mustang boasts minor chassis tweaks that further refine its already sporty driving dynamics. With a stiffer under-dash K-brace, a quicker steering ratio, a stiffer steering column, and stiffer rear lower control arm bushings, the Dark Horse inherits the handling prowess that is synonymous with the Mustang name.
The Dark Horse comes equipped with the Handling Package, which includes a range of performance upgrades. This package includes wider wheels, larger tires, adjustable front strut top mounts, front tow hooks, a bigger rear wing with a Gurney flap, slightly stiffer front and rear springs, and a solid rear stabilizer bar. These upgrades provide increased grip, enhanced stability, and improved handling characteristics.
The Dark Horse’s performance on the track is truly impressive. With minimal body lean, direct and communicative steering, and a Torsen limited-slip differential ensuring power is efficiently distributed, the Mustang handles corners with precision and confidence. The brakes, which feature 6-piston calipers up front and 4-piston calipers in the rear, provide consistent stopping power, allowing the Mustang to decelerate rapidly from high speeds.
Perhaps the biggest revelation of the Dark Horse’s performance lies in its optional Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires. These high-performance tires offer significantly more grip, providing the car with the ability to carry more speed through corners and ultimately reduce lap times. With lateral grip surpassing 1.3 gs, the Dark Horse exhibits exceptional handling capabilities.
Overall, the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse proves to be a track-worthy machine that exceeds expectations in terms of both straight-line speed and cornering prowess. Its powerful V-8 engine, refined chassis, and performance upgrades offer an unforgettable driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or simply a Mustang enthusiast, the Dark Horse is an excellent choice for those craving an exhilarating ride on the track.
