Euro-Version Mustang Dark Horse Stretches Its Legs On Autobahn

True to its name, the Mustang Dark Horse is a surprising new addition to the Mustang lineup. Essentially, it acts as a high-performance package for an already powerful car. While it may lack the raw power or exclusive appeal of the Shelby GT350 or GT500, it follows in the path of the 2023 Mustang Mach 1, providing all the essentials needed for track performance and thrilling driving experiences.

The Mustang Dark Horse is powered by a robust 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that delivers 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque, enabling a swift 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds and a quarter-mile run in 12.5 seconds .However, the European version of the Dark Horse, which is showcased in AutoTopNL’s video, offers a reduced output due to stringent emissions standards.

The engine is detuned to 448 horsepower and 540 Nm of torque, a reduction of 52 horsepower from the U.S. model. The six-speed manual option brings it from 0 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 163 mph, while the ten-speed automatic transmission lowers the 0-62 mph time to 4.4 seconds but limits the top speed to 155 mph.