Key points of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R
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Track-Focused Model: The Dark Horse R is a high-performance, track-focused version of the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
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Engine: It features a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, tuned to produce “500+ horsepower.”
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Powertrain Upgrades: The car comes with an upgraded oil system, transmission cooling, differential cooling, and a Borla racing exhaust system for improved performance.
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Safety Features: The Dark Horse R includes a fuel cell for added safety and capacity during track use.
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Transmission and Brakes: It retains the six-speed manual transmission and Brembo brakes from the base Dark Horse model.
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Visual Changes: The exterior appearance is similar to the standard Dark Horse, with the addition of necessary tow hooks and smaller 19-inch wheels wrapped in racing slicks.
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Suspension and Handling: The car is equipped with Multimatic DSSV racing dampers, adjustable anti-roll bars, and adjustable front camber plates to enhance on-track performance.
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Racing Cabin: The interior is stripped of creature comforts and transformed into a full racing cabin, featuring a roll cage, Recaro racing seats, a Sparco racing harness, and a removable Sparco steering wheel.
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Mustang Challenge: Buyers have the opportunity to compete in the Mustang Challenge, a new single-make racing series organized by Ford Performance Racing School and sanctioned by IMSA.
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Price and Delivery: The Ford Mustang Dark Horse R is priced at $145,000, and deliveries are expected to begin in 2024, just ahead of the first Mustang Challenge races
Details
The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R is a turn-key race car that is essentially a more track-focused version of the standard Dark Horse. It features a 500+ horsepower naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine, an upgraded oil system, transmission cooling, differential cooling, a Borla racing exhaust system, and a fuel cell for added safety and capacity.
Interior
The car also features Multimatic DSSV racing dampers, adjustable anti-roll bars, and adjustable front camber plates. The interior has been stripped out in favour of a full racing cabin with a roll cage, Recaro racing seats, a Sparco racing harness, and a removable Sparco steering wheel.
It is priced at $145,000 and deliveries are expected to start in 2024. Buyers that purchase a Dark Horse R will also have the opportunity to compete in the Mustang Challenge, a new single-make racing series put on by Ford Performance Racing School.
Here are some of the key features of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R
- 500+ horsepower naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine
- The upgraded oil system, transmission cooling, differential cooling, Borla racing exhaust system, and a fuel cell for added safety and capacity
- Multimatic DSSV racing dampers, adjustable anti-roll bars, and adjustable front camber plates
- Full racing cabin with a roll cage, Recaro racing seats, a Sparco racing harness, and a removable Sparco steering wheel
- Priced at $145,000
- Deliveries expected to start in 2024
If you’re looking for a turn-key race car is ready to hit the track, the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R is a great option. It’s powered by a potent V8 engine and features a full racing suspension and interior. The Dark Horse R is also priced competitively, making it a great value for serious racers.
Pros of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R
- High Performance: The Dark Horse R is specifically designed for track use, offering impressive performance capabilities with its tuned V8 engine and track-focused upgrades.
- Turn-Key Race Car: As a turn-key race car, it’s ready for track action without the need for extensive modifications, making it convenient for enthusiasts who want to hit the track right away.
- Racing Safety Features: The addition of a fuel cell and other safety enhancements improve the car’s safety for high-speed track driving.
- Track-Optimized Suspension: The Multimatic DSSV racing dampers and adjustable anti-roll bars contribute to improved handling and cornering performance on the track.
- Mustang Challenge Opportunity: Buyers get the chance to participate in the Mustang Challenge, a competitive racing series organized by Ford Performance Racing School, adding an exciting racing experience.
Cons of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R
- High Price: The Dark Horse R comes at a steep price of $145,000, which might be out of reach for many potential buyers.
- Limited Practicality: Due to its racing-focused modifications, the Dark Horse R sacrifices many creature comforts and is not suitable for everyday street use.
- Racing Tires: The smaller 19-inch wheels with racing slicks are optimized for track performance but might result in reduced traction and comfort during regular driving on public roads.
- Racing Cabin: The stripped-down interior with a roll cage and racing seats may not provide the comfort and convenience expected in a regular car, limiting its usability outside of the track.
- Restricted Availability: As a limited-edition model, the Dark Horse R might be challenging to acquire for interested buyers due to limited production numbers.
Conclusion
As with any high-performance track car, potential buyers should carefully consider their intended use and preferences before committing to a purchase. The Dark Horse R is undoubtedly a thrilling machine for track enthusiasts, but its focused nature may not suit everyone’s needs and lifestyle.
Motor1
Photos by Jeff Perez
