The recently concluded Goodwood Festival of Speed 2023 witnessed Ford’s debut of the Mustang Mach-E Rally.
While the specifics remained shrouded in mystery, this performance-tuned electric compact crossover amazed spectators when it participated in the Hillclimb event. It seems the American automaker is preparing something for upcoming motorsport events. Introducing the Mustang Dark Horse R.
For far too long, the limelight in the world of track-only variants has been hogged by exotic supercars and hypercars.
Now, it’s the Blue Oval’s turn to present a machine meticulously engineered to elevate the galloping horse emblem beyond that of the flagship trim of its commercial counterpart. Feedback from numerous automotive journalists who have had the chance to test the street-legal build has been overwhelmingly positive.
Priced at $146,595, it might be a tad prohibitive for your average pony car enthusiast. However, for those with a strong desire to frequently unleash its potential on the tracks, reserving a unit is an attractive proposition.
Ford has disclosed that the Mustang Dark Horse R will be hitting the racetracks in several International Motor Sport Association (IMSA) sanctioned races.
This event, labeled the “Mustang Challenge,” will feature only a handful of Mustang Dark Horse Rs competing head to head. Under the hood of this muscular car is a 500-horsepower 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine paired with a six-speed Tremec manual gearbox.
Furthermore, Ford mentions that it comes with a Torsen limited-slip differential, as well as a 3.73 final-drive ratio.
In preparation for its track performance, every ounce of excess weight needs to be trimmed. Consequently, Ford Performance has stripped away all unnecessary components and installed a Recaro FIA racing seat, a racing harness, a quick-release steering wheel, and other vital safety systems. Naturally, these upgrades extend to all other aspects to ensure the Mustang Dark Horse R delivers a thrilling and exhilarating experience.
