Summary
- Ford has officially revealed the Ford Mustang Dark Horse R, a track-only race car that is fully specced and ready to compete in the new Mustang Challenge spec racing series.
- The Dark Horse R is built upon the existing high-performance Dark Horse model with the 5.0-liter V-8 engine with 500 horsepower and features numerous upgrades, including Multimatic DSSV dampers, Brembo brakes, and Michelin racing slicks.
- Ford has integrated FIA-approved safety enhancements into the Dark Horse R, including an FIA-certified safety cage, a Recaro racing seat, track-ready seat belts, a quick-release steering wheel, and a fire suppression system. The Mustang Challenge Racing Series offers Dark Horse R owners the opportunity to compete against other Mustang enthusiasts on sanctioned racing weekends.
The day has finally come, we have finally got our first proper look at the Ford Mustang Dark Horse R. On the 27th of July, 7:00 pm Eastern Time, Ford revealed the brilliant track-only beast to us in all its glory. This is after a small initial teaser trailer which was released earlier today, gave us a small glimpse into some of the things we can expect from the pony car. The cinematic trailer that dropped gave us a look at this monster tearing up the track.
The hardcore Dark Horse R was first announced back in September when the S650 was revealed last year, so It's fair to say that there’s been a decent amount of hype surrounding it. The new Mustang is set to inherit a lot of elements from the Dark Horse, adding some extra spice to make it what Ford claims to be a turn-key race car. The purpose? This kitted Dark Horse is set to be fully specced and ready to compete in the new Mustang Challenge spec racing series. It aims to bridge the gap between the GT3 and GT4 race cars.
Inside And Out The Dark Horse R Is A Born And Bred Race Car
The Dark Horse R is built upon the existing high-performance Dark Horse. This includes the upgraded exhaust, adjustable rear wing, and high-end braking system. The new Stang also packs the 5.0-liter V-8 from its road-going brother and claims an output of 500 plus horsepower. It also features
- Multimatic DSSV dampers
- A set of Brembo brakes
- Ford Performance Parts R1 Flow-Formed Wheels
- 19-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin racing slicks
- An upgraded Borla exhaust system
- Ford Performance oil pan
- A series of improved cooling systems
- Select seam welding
- Roll cage
To keep drivers safe in their all-new Mustang-only challenge, Ford has had to integrate their track car with a number of FIA-approved safety enhancements. To start, there is an FIA-certified safety cage encasing the driver along with a safety net. The driver seat is a full-blown Recaro racing seat with track-ready seat belts. Further, the steering wheel is quick-release meaning the driver can detach it in the case of an emergency. The Mustang also features a fire suppression system.
The Mustang Challenge Racing Series Shows Ford's Dedication To Excitement
The Mustang Challenge spec racing series, which kicks off in 2024, running a 10 to 12-race calendar, will offer Dark Horse R owners an opportunity to put their skills to the test against other Mustang enthusiasts. It will feature a number of racing weekends sanctioned by the IMSA and managed by the Ford Performance Racing School. Winners of each race will receive payouts, with the overall winner of the series being crowned champion.
The Dark Horse R starts at $145,000 and Ford is aiming to ship all orders so for the start of their new series in 2024. This isn’t the first or the last racing Mustang that Ford will release. The Mustang GT3 was revealed earlier this year to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The GT3 was also built upon the Dark Horse, with a number of performance upgrades being added to it to make it race ready, including a 5.4-liter V-8 under the hood.
Ford is set to develop and release a number of Mustang race derivatives to compete in the likes of NASCAR and NHRA Factory X. Ford’s place in the world of racing has always been strong, but the future is looking bright for the all-American automaker. It's great to see them embracing enthusiasts and giving long-time Mustang fans a shot at glory.