2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R Review
Overview
The 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R is the ultimate track-ready Mustang — a factory-built race car designed for serious drivers and sanctioned competition. Developed by Ford Performance, the Dark Horse R takes everything that makes the street-legal Dark Horse thrilling and amplifies it for the circuit with a race-spec engine, roll cage, and FIA-compliant safety systems.
It’s not just a performance package — it’s a purpose-built weapon for those who live for lap times and apex precision.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.0 L Coyote V8 – Race-Tuned Naturally Aspirated |
| Horsepower | Approx. 500 hp @ 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | Around 418 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TREMEC® 3160 6-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Chassis | Track-Optimized with Ford Performance Suspension |
| Brakes | Brembo® Race-Spec Braking System |
| Wheels / Tires | 19-in Forged Alloy Wheels / Michelin Racing Slicks |
| Safety | Full Roll Cage / Fire Suppression / Racing Harness |
| Fuel System | FIA-Certified Racing Cell |
| Starting Price | Approx. $145,000 USD (Race-Spec Configuration) |
Design & Exterior
The Dark Horse R looks every bit the dedicated racer it is. Its aggressive aero package — including a large fixed rear wing, extended front splitter, and rear diffuser — provides the downforce needed to stick through high-speed corners.
Ford uses lightweight materials throughout, with body panels optimized for rigidity and cooling. Functional hood vents, wider fenders, and track-ready stance make it instantly recognizable as a competition-spec Mustang.
Interior & Cockpit
Inside, the Dark Horse R is stripped of excess weight and luxury. You’ll find:
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Single racing bucket seat with six-point harness
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FIA-compliant roll cage and fire-suppression system
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Quick-release steering wheel and race data display
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Minimal interior trim — pure motorsport functionality
Every component serves one goal: maximum performance, safety, and driver focus on the track.
Performance
Powered by the latest 5.0 L Coyote V8, the Dark Horse R revs to exhilarating highs while maintaining reliability for endurance racing. The engine pairs with a TREMEC® 6-speed manual and upgraded cooling systems to withstand full-throttle sessions.
Its Ford Performance suspension includes adjustable dampers, stiffer bushings, and track geometry tuned for competitive handling. Massive Brembo® brakes and Michelin slicks ensure relentless grip and fade-free stopping.
The car’s mechanical grip, precision steering, and immediate throttle response make it an ideal platform for one-make racing series and amateur competition — all factory-built, warrantied, and race-ready.
Technology & Data
Although focused on racing, Ford equips the Dark Horse R with advanced driver information systems:
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Data acquisition system for telemetry and lap analysis
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Digital performance cluster with real-time vitals
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Adjustable drive modes for traction and ABS tuning
It’s a blend of analog driving passion and modern digital insight.
Pros
✅ Factory-built, track-ready Mustang from Ford Performance
✅ Race-tuned Coyote V8 with manual gearbox
✅ FIA-certified safety and data systems
✅ Handles and feels like a pure competition machine
✅ Eligible for single-make racing events and track series
Cons
⚠️ Not street-legal
⚠️ High price for non-road use
⚠️ Requires trailering and track support
Verdict
The 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R is the closest you can get to a professional GT4 race car straight from the factory. With over 500 horsepower, fully race-ready hardware, and official Ford Performance engineering, it’s a turnkey track weapon built for serious competitors.
For Zohari Cars readers, the Dark Horse R represents the purest form of Mustang performance — unfiltered, uncompromising, and unapologetically loud. It’s not meant for the streets — it’s made for the podium.