Published:
26 June 2024The Mustang offers a variety of drive modes spanning Normal (where everything is set to comfort), Sport (increased throttle response, stiffened dampers, reduced steering assistance), Slippery (reduced throttle response for wet conditions), Track (altered damper settings and stability control), Drag Strip (higher engine speeds), and a Custom mode.
The modes don’t provide as much difference to the driving experience as you might expect, with even Normal offering the V8’s full 440bhp and 398lb ft, and all the rumbling charisma you would expect. At idle, the engine sounds purposeful, if a little subdued, but if you want even more noise, Sport mode opens an additional exhaust valve.
Under acceleration, and especially above 4500rpm, the Mustang GT really comes alive, tensing up around you and building via a raspy crescendo to its 7500rpm redline. It feels faster than its 5.3sec 0-62mph time and 155mph top speed suggest, but not so quick as to intimidate the driver.
Despite the additional performance, the Dark Horse doesn't feel different enough in regular conditions to justify the £12,270 price hike over the GT car – on the road, at least. On track, we suspect the differences would become more apparent.
