New Mustang Dark Horse Specs, Engine & Power
Shop New Mustang Dark Horse

The Mustang Dark Horse is engineered for Mustang enthusiasts who crave increased power, racetrack-oriented handling, and stronger braking. It's the ultimate Mustang. This premier vehicle represents the absolute pinnacle of American engineering, combining raw power with sophisticated technology for an unmatched driving experience. Experience the V-8 ferocity by setting up a test drive at Lorenzo Ford, but first, get familiar with the technical details of the Ford Mustang Dark Horse by reading this guide.

Mustang Dark Horse at a Glance

  • The Mustang Dark Horse is an evolution of the iconic Mustang GT with enhanced power and performance.
  • Three variations are available for 2026, including the high-output 795-horsepower Mustang Dark Horse SC.
  • Mustang Dark Horse horsepower is bolstered by track-focused features like extensive powertrain cooling and Brembo™ brakes.
  • With exclusive interior features like a Panoramic Curved Display, the Dark Horse is ready for your command.

Discover the 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Trim Levels

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is available in three trim levels:

  • 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse
  • 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Premium
  • 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC

The main difference between the 2026 and 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse models is the addition of the SC variant and expanded color options. Because of this, a pre-owned Mustang Dark Horse can be just as satisfying as a new one. Drivers can confidently choose between these configurations to find the perfect balance of luxury, speed, and aggressive track-ready styling.

The distinctions between the three 2026 models are as follows:

2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Performance Specs & Features Across Trims

Dark Horse Dark Horse Premium Dark Horse SC
Engine 5.0L Coyote V-8 5.0L Coyote V-8 5.2L Supercharged V-8
Horsepower 500 500 795
Torque 418 lb-ft 418 lb-ft 660 lb-ft
Transmission
  • 10-speed SelectShift automatic (Standard)
  • 6-speed TREMEC manual w/ rev matching (Available)
  • 10-speed SelectShift automatic (Standard)
  • 6-speed TREMEC manual w/ rev matching (Available)
7-speed TREMEC dual clutch automatic
0-60 mph
  • 3.7 s (10-speed automatic)1
  • 4.1 s (6-speed manual)1
  • 3.7 s (10-speed automatic)1
  • 4.1 s (6-speed manual)1
TBD
Performance Features
  • Michelin 2 tires
  • Engine oil, transmission, and differential coolers
  • Launch control
  • MagneRide damping system
  • Brembo™ 6-piston front brake calipers
  • TORSEN limited-slip rear differential
  • Active valve performance exhaust
  • Drift brake
  • K-brace
  • Michelin 2 tires
  • Engine oil, transmission, and differential coolers
  • Launch control
  • MagneRide damping system
  • Brembo™ 6-piston front brake calipers
  • TORSEN limited-slip rear differential
  • Active valve performance exhaust
  • Drift brake
  • K-brace
  • Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 R tires
  • Launch control
  • MagneRide damping system
  • Composite carbon fiber driveshaft
  • Lowered shock absorber mountings
  • Rear diffuser
  • Magnesium tower to tower brace
  • Carbon fiber hood vents
Interior Features
  • 6-way power driver seat
  • Heated front seats
  • 12-Speaker Bang & Olufsen® Sound System
  • Magnesium-framed Panoramic Curved Display
  • Leather-trimmed seating
  • 6-way power driver seat
  • Heated and cooled front seats
  • 12-Speaker Bang & Olufsen® Sound System
  • Magnesium-framed Panoramic Curved Display
  • Leather-trimmed seating
  • Aluminum foot pedals
  • 6-way power driver seat w/ memory
  • 12-Speaker Bang & Olufsen® Sound System
  • Magnesium-framed Panoramic Curved Display
  • Leather-trimmed seating
  • Leather-wrapped flat-bottomed steering wheel
    w/ carbon fiber bezel w/ magnesium paddle shifters
  • Aluminum foot pedals

The Mustang Dark Horse Specs and Performance Features

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse performance specs and features are the star of this show.

To start, the Dark Horse Mustang features a modified version of the iconic 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 engine, specifically enhanced to deliver 500 horsepower and 418 pound-feet of torque. Like the Mustang GT, Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium models can be equipped with a 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, though the manual option is a high-performance TREMEC unit exclusively reserved for the Dark Horse.

The other Ford Mustang Dark Horse engine is only found in the Dark Horse SC: It's an exotic 5.2-liter Supercharged V-8 with a cross-plane crank. This engine blends smooth revs with absolute fury, making a whopping 795 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque. It's the most vicious, highest-hp Mustang, aside from the ultra-exclusive Mustang GTD.

All three Mustang Dark Horse trims include a wide range of weight-saving features, such as the magnesium frame for the Panoramic Curved Display frame; the Dark Horse SC takes this to the extreme with enhancements like a carbon fiber composite driveshaft.

The Mustang Dark Horse 0-60 mph time can be as fast as 3.7 seconds1 with the 5.0-liter engine and an automatic transmission or 4.1 seconds with the six-speed manual.1 Not counting the GTD, the only faster 2026 Mustang from zero to 60 mph is the new Mustang Mach-E.

While the Ford Mustang Dark Horse top speed should never be reached on public roads, this street-legal monster can hit 166 mph on a closed course.1

Meanwhile, the Mustang Dark Horse SC has yet to receive a confirmed 0-60 mph time or top speed, but it undoubtedly will be even faster than the other Dark Horse models (and likely every Mach-E trim, too).

The Mustang Dark Horse Specs and Performance Features, in redThe Mustang Dark Horse Specs and Performance Features, in blue

Upgraded Ford Mustang Dark Horse Interior Features

The Dark Horse is an extra-thrilling new Ford Mustang that also boasts desirable interior upgrades. Setting itself apart from the already well-equipped GT trim, the base Dark Horse includes standard or available features, such as:

  • Magnesium-framed Panoramic Curved Display
  • 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen® Sound System
  • Leather-wrapped flat-bottomed steering wheel with performance suede insert
  • Titanium anodized blue gear shift knob
  • Dark Horse instrument panel badge
  • Leather-trimmed seating
Upgraded Ford Mustang Dark Horse Interior Features

2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Colors

Beyond performance and interior upgrades, a Ford Mustang lease or finance plan for a Dark Horse model allows you to choose from the following stylish color options:

  • Orange Fury
  • Race Red
  • Molten Magenta
  • Vapor Blue
  • Adriatic Blue
  • Blue Ember
  • Argon Blue
  • Shadow Black
  • Carbonized Gray
  • Avalanche Gray
  • Oxford White

To further customize the aesthetic, the Mustang Dark Horse offers multiple available exterior accents, such as:

  • Tarnish Dark High Gloss and Shadow Black racing stripe
  • Tarnish Dark High Gloss with Tuxedo Black racing stripe
  • Tarnish Dark Low Gloss and Gloss Black hood stripe
  • Gloss Black and Tarnish Dark Anodized accent stripe
  • Painted Black roof
  • Red Pin stripe (exclusive to Dark Horse SC)
2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in Carbonized Gray2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in Blue Ember

Experience the 2026 Mustang Dark Horse Today

Now that you know what it is all about, the only thing left to do is to find your nearest Mustang Dark Horse dealer and schedule a test drive.

For anyone local to our South Florida Ford dealership in Homestead, contact the Lorenzo Ford team to set up a test drive of your next Mustang Dark Horse. Whether you're coming from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, we'll make sure that your time with us is as satisfying as the new Mustang Dark Horse is exhilarating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's so special about the Dark Horse Mustang?

The Dark Horse Mustang is special because it offers more power, a track-focused set of upgrades, and exclusive styling over the other V-8 Mustang trims. For 2026, the lineup is topped by the Dark Horse SC: a supercharged monster with 795 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque.

Is a Camaro or a Mustang faster?

While the Camaro was discontinued in 2024, the Mustang continues to evolve. These two muscle cars were fierce rivals for decades; some Mustang trims and model years were faster than other Camaros, and vice versa, but most Mustang models were faster.

What is the difference between the Mustang GT and Dark Horse?

The Mustang GT is the standard V-8 Mustang, while the Dark Horse is the track-ready, souped-up V-8 Mustang. The Dark Horse has unique interior features, many performance upgrades, and distinct styling compared to the GT.

When did the Ford Mustang Dark Horse come out?

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse debuted alongside the seventh-generation Mustang in October of 2022. For four years now, it has been the ultimate in modern muscle-car thrills.

What engine does the Ford Mustang Dark Horse have?

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium feature a 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 that has been tuned to make 500 horsepower and 418 pound-feet of torque, while the Mustang Dark Horse SC has a unique 5.2-liter Supercharged V-8 with 795 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque.

How much horsepower does the 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse have?

The 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium have 500 horsepower, while the Dark Horse SC has a unique engine with an incredible output of 795 horsepower.

Ford Mustang Testimonials From Florida Drivers

GG

2/27/26

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Great job on my wife's 2026 mustang convertible. Very professional and spot on with finance dept. And sales experience. Adrian and Alan were awesome …

Amari Thompson

2/19/26

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I had an amazing experience at Lorenzo Ford! Adrian was my salesman, and he truly went above and beyond to help me find the right car. He made the entire process smooth, stress-free, and actually enjoyable. He took the time to answer all my questions, made sure I felt confident in my decision, and got me into a great car that I absolutely love. I never felt pressured—just supported the whole way through. If you’re looking for someone who genuinely cares and will work hard to get you the best deal possible, ask for Adrian at Lorenzo Ford. Highly recommend!

Sasha Singh

1/12/26

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Adrian did a GREAT job staying on top of our order, and we love our new Mustang GT! Frank (parts dept) was very helpful, as well, a real sweetie. Overall, we are very happy customers!

Raul G

10/1/2026

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The staff at Lorenzo Ford collision and body shop did a great job with my Mustang Mach E. They were very professional and courteous throughout the whole process. Special thanks to Wendy the administrative assistant who was extremely helpful. I highly recommend Lorenzo Ford.

Jose Herrera

6/20/26

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We had a great experience buying a Mustang for my daughter at Lorenzo Ford. Andy, our salesperson, was very helpful, honest, and made everything easy from the start. Mr. Hernandez in finance also did an excellent job and helped make the process smooth and quick. Even though we got there late in the evening, they stayed with us until everything was done and we were ready to drive home. Really great service — I definitely recommend them.


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1This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/mustang