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The Ford Mustang has always been an icon of American performance, and the latest generation promises to uphold that tradition. The range-topping GT and the track-focused Dark Horse stand as thrilling examples of the Mustang breed, but what exactly sets them apart? Let’s dive into the details.
The Shared Heart: A Potent V8
Both the Mustang GT and Dark Horse draw their power from the legendary 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. While this means they share a common powerplant, the way they harness that power is where things get interesting.
- Mustang GT:This classic muscle car delivers 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Whether you opt for the slick six-speed manual or the smooth 10-speed automatic, the GT is ready to rumble.
- Dark Horse:A track-focused beast, the Mustang Dark Horse takes things up a notch, boasting 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. It’s the most potent naturally aspirated V8 ever fitted to a production Mustang, promising an electrifying experience.
Performance and Handling: Where They Diverge
The Mustang GT, especially when equipped with the Performance Pack, is a serious contender on the road or track. Its Torsen limited-slip differential, optional MagneRide adaptive suspension, and Brembo brakes give it a sharp edge.
The Dark Horse, though, elevates the driving experience to another level. It comes standard with track-inspired upgrades like:
- MagneRide adaptive suspension
- Rear axle cooler
- Beefier sway bars
- Bespoke rear spoiler with a Gurney flap
- Staggered-width Pirelli tires (optional carbon fiber wheels available)
Unleashing the Speed
If you crave straight-line thrills, the Dark Horse won’t disappoint. With the manual transmission, it rockets to 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds, or just 3.7 seconds with the 10-speed automatic. The quarter-mile? No problem—around 12 seconds at a blazing 118.4 mph.
The Mustang GT, while still plenty fast, takes a slight backseat here. Expect a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.3 seconds with the manual (or 3.9 seconds with the automatic) and a quarter-mile time of around 12.2 seconds at 116.8 mph.
Which Mustang Tames Your Spirit?
At their core, both the Ford Mustang GT and Dark Horse embody the untamed Mustang legacy. The GT delivers classic power and driving enjoyment, while the Dark Horse pushes performance to the cutting edge. So, which one is best for you?
The best way to determine which Mustang is right for you is to experience them firsthand. Visit Essential Ford of Stuart and let our experts guide you through the features of each. Get behind the wheel and embrace the thrill—the Mustang that ignites your passion is waiting for you at our dealership. Stop by or call us today at (727) 287-0955 to schedule your test drive, and in the meantime, browse our inventory online!
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