Explore the differences between the Ford Mustang GTD and Dark Horse, where traditional muscle car roots evolve into high-performance supercar territory.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: A Muscle Car Transformed Into a Supercar
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse and GTD may share a name and platform, but they are worlds apart in design and performance.
Ford has taken the bold step of creating a street-legal version of its GT3 racing Mustang, introducing the Mustang GTD—a supercar that brings cutting-edge racing technology to those who can afford this six-figure masterpiece. While it shares some engineering with the standard Mustang, the GTD is a significant leap beyond the typical muscle car.
To highlight the differences, let’s compare the Mustang GTD with the most powerful variant of the traditional Mustang lineup, the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: What Does GTD Mean?
The “GTD” in Mustang GTD refers directly to Ford’s racing heritage, specifically the IMSA Grand Touring Daytona class. This category is reserved for the most advanced street-car-based machines competing in events like the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The name perfectly reflects the GTD’s roots in track-tested technology.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Engine Power
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is the most powerful naturally aspirated Mustang ever, with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. The engine, a refined version of the Coyote V8, delivers its peak power at 7,250 rpm and maximum torque at just under 5,000 rpm.
On the other hand, the Mustang GTD is powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V8, expected to deliver over 800 horsepower—far surpassing its Shelby GT500 predecessor. Although specific torque figures are yet to be released, it’s likely to exceed the 625 lb-ft found in the previous Shelby model. Unlike the GT3 race car, which features a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated engine due to racing regulations, the GTD is designed to push boundaries on the street.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Transmission Choices
The Dark Horse offers two transmission options: a six-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic. Notably, the manual gearbox is different from the standard Mustang GT, featuring a Getrag-built transmission.
In contrast, the Mustang GTD goes full exotic with an eight-speed dual-clutch transaxle mounted behind the passenger compartment. This setup improves weight distribution by separating the transmission from the engine, positioning the powerplant as far back as possible under the firewall, and relocating the gearbox weight to the rear. This design, rooted in GT3 racing technology, provides the GTD with superior balance.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Suspension and Handling
The Dark Horse includes Ford’s MagneRide adaptive suspension system as standard, which adjusts to road conditions in real-time. It also features a strut tower brace, 19-inch wheels (with an optional carbon-fiber upgrade), and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential for enhanced traction.
The GTD, however, replaces much of the Dark Horse’s suspension with a more advanced system derived from Ford’s racing program. The rear features a semi-active design with inboard pushrods, similar to the GT3 car. A hydraulic system in track mode can lower the GTD’s ride height and double its spring rate. At all four corners, the GTD is equipped with continuously adaptive, 16-way adjustable spool-valve shocks designed by Multimatic, the race car manufacturer responsible for assembling the GTD.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Interior and Comfort
Despite its performance credentials, the Dark Horse is still a street-friendly car, complete with a rear seat suitable for children and enough comfort for daily driving.
The GTD, on the other hand, is unapologetically track-focused. It lacks a rear seat and offers minimal trunk space, as the rear houses the inboard suspension system and a transmission cooler, visible through a plexiglass window. You can fit a small overnight bag behind the front seats, but this will obscure the view of the GTD’s unique rear suspension.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Aerodynamics and Design
The Dark Horse features distinctive styling tweaks, including a redesigned grille, front bumper, and rear spoiler. For those wanting a more aggressive look, the Handling package adds an enhanced rear with a Gurney flap.
The GTD takes aerodynamics to another level, with large vents in its bulging fenders, 20-inch wheels, and a track widened by 4 inches compared to the Dark Horse. The GTD also features front and rear splitters and a rear wing mounted on the roof pillar for serious downforce. As much carbon fiber as possible has been used in the body panels, with options for a full carbon-fiber undertray, making the GTD as lightweight and aerodynamic as possible.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Top Speed and Acceleration
The Dark Horse can reach a top speed of 166 mph, nearly maxing out its W-rated tires. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds with the automatic transmission, with the manual adding about 0.4 seconds.
Ford has yet to release specific acceleration figures for the GTD, but it’s designed to surpass 190 mph. This top speed is achieved by lowering the car’s active suspension by 1.6 inches, which Ford claims adds around 20 mph to its maximum velocity.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs. GTD: Pricing
The Mustang Dark Horse is priced at $60,635, offering a high-performance package at a relatively accessible price point, especially for muscle car enthusiasts.
The Mustang GTD, however, starts at $325,000, reflecting its supercar-level performance and exclusivity. Ford plans to produce between 300 and 700 units annually, making it a rare and highly sought-after vehicle.
Buy a Ford Mustang Dark Horse If…
The Mustang Dark Horse is ideal for enthusiasts looking for a powerful, V8 muscle car with the option of a manual transmission. It’s the most potent version of the Mustang currently available and stands out as a symbol of Detroit muscle, especially with the departure of the Challenger and Camaro.
Buy a Ford Mustang GTD If…
– Your wealth is substantial, with a net worth in the millions.
– You frequently drive on high-speed tracks like the Nürburgring or the autobahn.
– You’re interested in GT3 racing but aren’t ready to commit to a full team.
The Mustang GTD is a supercar-level interpretation of the Mustang, sharing some DNA with the Dark Horse but elevating performance, design, and exclusivity to a whole new level.
