Hot on the heels of the new-generation Ford Mustang GT arriving on local shores, the more sinister Dark Horse version has just landed too.
Sporting numerous modifications aimed at track day enthusiasts, the Dark Horse is priced at exactly R1.5 million, which is a R200,000 premium over the GT.
As the most powerful normally aspirated Mustang that Ford has ever produced, the Dark Horse comes with a modified version of the Mustang’s 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine, producing 334kW, which is a 6kW increase over the GT, and 540Nm. Unfortunately it has been detuned for our market as the US version thunders out 372kW.
The Dark Horse, which boasts specially modified piston connecting rods first introduced in the Shelby GT500, sends its power to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic gearbox.
Because it’s built for life at the track, the Dark Horse also sports a lightweight radiator with improved cooling capacity as well as NACA ducts to help cool the brakes, an auxiliary engine oil cooler and rear axle cooler.
Customers can also look forward to unique chassis tuning, including larger rear sway bars and MagneRide shocks that are said to be capable of monitoring wheel and tyre movement 1,000 times per second. 19-inch, six-piston Brembo front brakes with 13.9-inch rotors are also part of the deal.
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As with the Mustang GT, there is also a remote-rev function which allows owners to rev up that V8 from outside the car, using the key, because let’s face it, as a Mustang owner you are going to be asked to give it a rev on more than one occasion.
You can tell the Dark Horse apart on the outside by its unique front bumper, featuring a gloss black grille with trapezoidal nostrils, darkened LED headlights, side skirts as well as a fixed rear wing and larger diffuser at the back.
Clients can also opt for an Appearance Pack, which includes a black-painted roof, unique bonnet graphics, blue brake callipers and blue accents on the seats.
Those opting for this pack can also select an exclusive new exterior colour called Blue Ember metallic, designed to emit a warm glow when it catches the light.
The cockpit features a dedicated drive mode button on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to quickly select the desired driving set-up. This sits in front of a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster with customisable screens including a variety of drive modes.
Cabin decor includes unique blue stitching with matching blue seatbelts, while trim elements are finished in a dark metallic gloss called Black Alley.
Dark Horse customers can also look forward to a 12-speaker B&O premium audio system with subwoofer.
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is sold with a four-year or 120,000km warranty and the price includes the six-year or 90,000km “optional” service plan.
Look out for our driving impressions of the Dark Horse next week.
IOL