Ford is proud to introduce the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, a new addition to the Mustang lineup that sets it apart from models like the Boss 302, Bullitt, Mach 1, and Shelby GT350. While it may not be a direct successor to those iconic cars, the Dark Horse still delivers a familiar experience. It is built upon the new Mustang GT and features the same naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, albeit with some noteworthy enhancements.
The Dark Horse’s Coyote V8 engine has been upgraded with stronger camshafts, a balanced crankshaft, and forged connecting rods to make it more resilient on the track. Additionally, improvements to the dual throttle-body intake and grille allow for better airflow. With a slight adjustment to the ECU, the Dark Horse generates 500 horsepower at 7,250 rpm and 418 pound-feet of torque at 4,900 rpm. Compared to the Mustang GT with optional active-valve exhaust, the Dark Horse offers 14 extra horsepower while maintaining the same amount of torque. Under hard acceleration, the Dark Horse feels noticeably quicker thanks to improved air intake and a more pronounced exhaust note.
Ford provides the option of a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission for the Mustang Dark Horse, but I highly recommend choosing the six-speed manual instead. Unlike the Mustang GT’s gearbox, the Dark Horse’s transmission is the Tremec TR-3160, which delivers an outstanding driving experience. The clutch has the ideal weight, and the shifter’s tactile feedback is incredibly satisfying. The manual transmission also features driver aids such as no-lift upshifting and automatic rev-matching downshifts, making it smooth to drive in both city traffic and on the track.
The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse has superior handling and stands out from the Mustang GT with beefier front shocks, a new rear sway bar, and the inclusion of Ford’s MagneRide adaptive dampers as standard. However, the ride quality is on the stiff side, even in the standard driving mode. While the MagneRide suspension keeps the Dark Horse stable on North Carolina’s country backroads, it does transmit the feel of every imperfection on the road. Thankfully, it doesn’t suffer from excessive tramlining like the Shelby GT350. The Dark Horse comes equipped with 19-inch staggered wheels, Pirelli P Zero summer tires, and Brembo brakes, offering excellent performance and resistance to fade. The optional Drift Brake, found in other Mustang models, is also available for those looking to indulge in some sliding action.
Although the Dark Horse is fun to drive in its standard configuration, it does have its imperfections. The steering, in particular, requires improvement, as it feels too light and lacks communication with the tires. The Dark Horse’s steering response is quick, but the overall experience falls short. By adding the optional Handling Package, which includes wider Pirelli Trofeo R tires, stiffer springs, and larger sway bars, the steering improves slightly. This package also adds a unique rear spoiler with an integrated Gurney flap, making it a worthwhile addition for those planning to take the Dark Horse to the track.
As for aesthetics, opinions on the Dark Horse’s design may vary. Personally, I find the seventh-generation Mustang’s overall design to be a step in the wrong direction, particularly the taillights and spoiler. The black panels under the headlights may help with the flow of the light housings into the grille but are not aesthetically pleasing, especially with brighter colors.
The least expensive version of the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse starts at $60,865, including a $1,595 destination fee. The slightly pricier Dark Horse Premium, priced at an additional $3,995, offers some leather-wrapped interior elements but doesn’t significantly enhance the overall quality. While the Dark Horse may seem enticing on paper, it is hard to justify as a worthwhile upgrade over a fully loaded Mustang GT with the Performance Pack, especially considering the slightly rougher daily driving experience. It lacks the special qualities of a purpose-built Shelby GT350 that would justify its distinctiveness. In essence, it is like a Mustang GT Plus, but whether that is enough to entice buyers is still up for debate.