Ford Mustang Dark Horse R: Racing's New Thoroughbred
Ford's track-only beast: The Ford Mustang Dark Horse R
You know, the Ford Mustang has been the poster child for American muscle since the '60s. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, Ford rolls out the Mustang Dark Horse R—a track-only beast that's making waves in the racing world.
A New Breed of Mustang
Unveiled in July 2023, the Mustang Dark Horse R is Ford's latest addition to its performance lineup. This isn't your neighbor's weekend cruiser; it's a purpose-built race car designed to dominate the track. Ford Performance describes it as bridging "the gap between Dark Horse and Mustang GT3 and GT4," offering enthusiasts an attainable, factory-built race car.
Under the Hood
At the heart of the Dark Horse R is a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, borrowed from the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse coupe. But Ford didn't stop there. They've added a Borla® Racing Exhaust System, a RECARO® FIA racing seat, Brembo™ front and rear brakes, and bespoke Michelin 19” slick race tires. All these upgrades make it clear: this Mustang is built for speed.
Racing Debut
The Dark Horse R made its competitive debut in the Mustang Challenge Series, a one-make racing series sanctioned by the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). The inaugural season kicked off in June 2024 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, featuring five race weekends and a total of ten races. The series also visited iconic tracks like Watkins Glen International, Road America, Circuit of The Americas, and Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Behind the Wheel
The Mustang Challenge isn't just for seasoned pros. It's attracted a diverse group of drivers, including Ford Motor Company CEO Jim Farley, who piloted the #17 entry for MDK Motorsports during the inaugural event at Mid-Ohio. Tyler Maxson secured the series' first pole position, while Robert Noaker clinched the first race victory.
The Price of Performance
Now, if you're thinking about adding a Dark Horse R to your collection, be prepared to shell out around $146,595. It's a turnkey race car, ready to hit the track straight from the factory. While it slots below the more intense GT3 and GT4 race variants, it offers a unique blend of performance and accessibility for racing enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
Ford isn't slowing down. The 2025 Mustang Challenge Series is set to expand, with races planned at Sebring International Raceway, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and an invitational round at the legendary Circuit de la Sarthe during the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It's clear that the Dark Horse R is just getting started on its racing journey. In the end, the Mustang Dark Horse R isn't just a car; it's a statement. Ford has taken the essence of the classic Mustang and injected it with modern racing DNA, creating a machine that's ready to take on the world's most challenging tracks. So, if you see one of these thoroughbreds in your rearview mirror, just know that it's not horsing around.