Ford Performance has taken the covers off the new Mustang Dark Horse R, offering the most demanding track enthusiasts a turn-key race car ready to compete. It’s been designed for a one make series, but is expected to be eligible for multiple categories.
Despite a focus on the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) sanctioned Mustang Challenge, that bodes well for some Australian racing classes, who would welcome an additional option.
Bridging the gap between the Dark Horse road car and the Mustang GT3 and GT4, the Mustang Dark Horse R is powered by a new, fourth-generation 5.0-litre Coyote V8. Despite being a track car, it shares several components with that streel legal version.
These include the body, engine, Tremec 3160 manual transmission, Torsen limited slip diff with 3.73 final drive ratio, aero and Brembo rear brake callipers/rotors. It’s also upgraded with a wide array of track-focused equipment.
The updates include tow hooks, a Recaro FIA racing seat, Sparco quick-release steering wheel, FIA racing harness, and fire suppression system, Safecraft FIA safety nets, a driver keypad and button controls, and MoTeC data display and logging system.
A fuel cell is also fitted. In terms of the powertrain, there’s upgrades to the oil system, transmission and diff cooling, a Borla race exhaust, and Ford Performance oil pan. Chassis changes include a roll cage, and Multimatic DSSV dampers.
Adjustable front camber plates and anti-roll bars are also included, along with performance ABS, a Brembo race braking package, specific Ford Performance wheels. The Mustang Dark Horse R will compete single-make Mustang Challenge series.
That category kicks off in 2024, running a 10 to 12-race calendar in conjunction with a mix of five to six yet-to-be-announced North American sports car race weekends.
Pricing for Mustang Dark Horse R starts at US$145,000, putting it somewhere north of $215,000 AUD – plus the cost of getting it here for those who are keen to bring one down under. Ford Performance has a dedicated website for more information.
