Ford’s Dark Horse Mustang Emerges – A Track-Ready Performer
As the Ford Mustang enters a new era with the S650 model, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the next chapter of this iconic American muscle car’s evolution. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the S550, the latest Mustang promises more aggressive styling and a host of improvements, maintaining its status as one of the world’s premier performance cars. The commitment to a big V-8, manual transmission and rear-wheel drive showcases Ford’s dedication to its classic recipe, with a blend of modernity in design and technology.
Coyote V-8 vs. EcoBoost Inline-Four
The beating heart of the latest Mustang lineup comes in two distinct flavors: the EcoBoost inline-four and the mighty Coyote V-8. The entry-level Mustang EcoBoost Fastback embraces the turbocharged inline-four engine, offering a potent option for enthusiasts. In contrast, the Mustang GT and the intriguing Dark Horse feature the revered Coyote V-8, a powerhouse that has been the performance engine of choice for Mustang aficionados. The Dark Horse, a special variant, flaunts a modified Coyote engine, elevating its performance with forged internals for an extra kick in power and torque.
Transmission of Gears
Transmission choices add another layer of distinction to the Mustang lineup. While the EcoBoost Mustang shares a 10-speed automatic with its counterparts, the Mustang GT and Dark Horse provide a manual transmission experience, letting enthusiasts savor the art of shifting gears. The Mustang GT opts for a six-speed Getrag manual, while the Dark Horse, true to its performance-oriented nature, employs a six-speed Tremec manual transmission, a precision instrument previously featured in the GT350 and the legendary Mach 1.
Performance Packages Unveiled
Beyond the inherent performance of each model, Ford offers enthusiasts the opportunity to tailor their Mustang experience with performance packages. The EcoBoost variant can be equipped with a 2.3-liter high-performance package, refining suspension and chassis dynamics for a more exhilarating drive. Features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters, and upgraded braking systems elevate the driving experience.
The Mustang GT, already a powerhouse, offers its own performance package, incorporating enhancements like a K-brace, a performance-raised rear wing, and a 3.73 Torsen differential for the manual variant. These additions ensure an even more thrilling ride, pushing the boundaries of the Mustang GT’s capabilities.
Surprisingly, the Dark Horse arrives as a performance package in itself, embodying the spirit of track-ready Mustangs right from the start. Drawing inspiration from iconic predecessors like the Boss 302, Mach 1, and GT350, the Dark Horse boasts the best of the best, from engine upgrades to chassis tuning, making it a formidable contender on the track.
In the grand finale of choices, the Mustang lineup caters to a spectrum of driving preferences. Whether you opt for the turbocharged efficiency of the EcoBoost, the classic power of the Coyote V-8 in the GT, or the track-ready performance of the Dark Horse, each variant offers a unique driving experience. With a lineage spanning almost six decades, the Ford Mustang continues to captivate enthusiasts with its unwavering commitment to performance, style, and the thrill of the open road.
