It may be called the Dark Horse, but Ford’s new Mustang hero model is a clear fan favourite.
Ford Australia managed to secure 1000 examples of the new Mustang Dark Horse and before the first cars even hit local roads it was a sell-out. The company confirmed that not only are all 1000 already spoken for but dealers have indicated they have disappointed customers who missed out ready to pounce if anyone pulls out.
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The Dark Horse is a limited-run (although Ford has never publicly put a production number on the model) launch edition for the seventh-generation of the pony car. Powered by Ford’s most potent naturally-aspirated Mustang engine yet, a 5.0-litre V8 ‘Coyote’ tuned to make 350kW of power and 550Nm of torque. It’s mated to a six-speed manual Tremec gearbox which has unique ratios compared to the GT version and is capable of ‘flat-shifting’ under the right conditions. It also comes with a unique suspension tune compared to the GT and a bespoke body kit.
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With the Dark Horse already gone, it raises the question what Ford will do next. Ford US executives have hinted that more special editions are planned, potentially a revival of the Mach 1 or Bullitt badges, but those are likely further in the future.
Locally Ford Australia worked with Herrod Performance on the previous generation model to build the R-Spec, a 552kW supercharged version of the V8 pony car. Ford Australia spokesman Matt Moran told Torquecafe that while there are no immediate plans to replicate the concept with the new model, Herrod Performance is likely to offer a range of performance parts and upgrades.
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“Reflecting first on the R-Spec, it was a terrific vehicle and we’ve seen enthusiasm for it continue, you know, so there’s owners who have them now, love them and that’s really great to see,” Moran said. “As is the same with any limited edition Mustang run we’ve done, like the Mach 1, very successful, and the Dark Horse has been here too.
“No news to share on any plans for another collaboration. But I know that Herrod Performance does great work across a range of vehicles and I expect they have plans and Rob would be happy to share.”
The good news for those who want a Mustang GT or EcoBoost is Moran confirmed there will be a steady supply of the right-hand drive model from the USA, with deliveries of the MY24 already underway and the updated MY25 set to begin shortly.
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