Mustang Dark Horse Outpaces BMW M4 with Unique Strategy
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse has demonstrated its prowess on the track, particularly against the BMW M4 Competition in a recent U-Drag showdown conducted by Edmunds. The unique characteristics of these two powerful vehicles highlight the Dark Horse’s competitive edge.
Mustang Dark Horse vs. BMW M4 Competition
During the U-Drag challenge, the tuned Mustang faced off against the BMW in a series of races designed to test acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities. The initial race began with the M4 Competition quickly gaining a lead. However, the Mustang’s superior braking and cornering abilities allowed it to close the gap significantly by the end of the quarter mile.
Race Highlights
- Race 1: The M4 took an early lead but was overtaken by the Mustang due to its effective handling.
- Race 2: Again, the BMW launched well but was quickly caught by the Dark Horse, which showcased impressive cornering capabilities.
Power Specs and Performance
The Mustang Dark Horse, equipped with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, produces an impressive 810 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the stock BMW M4 Competition generates 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The weight of the Mustang is 4,122 lbs, yet its power-to-weight ratio of 5.09 lbs per horsepower allows it to outperform the M4’s ratio of 7.49 lbs per horsepower.
Pricing Comparison
| Model | Price | 0-60 mph | Quarter Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Mustang Dark Horse | $90,111 (with supercharger) | 3.9 seconds | 11.4 seconds at 129 mph |
| BMW M4 Competition | $108,945 | 3.7 seconds | 11.6 seconds at 124 mph |
Cornering and Grip Advantages
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse excels not only on straightaways but also in cornering dynamics. It achieved a remarkable 1.33 g of lateral grip, significantly surpassing the BMW’s 1.18 g. This grip advantage translates into faster overall lap times, with the Mustang clocking 32.9 seconds compared to the BMW’s 33.7 seconds.
Conclusion
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse’s unique strategy of leveraging its power, braking stability, and cornering capabilities ultimately allowed it to dominate against the BMW M4 Competition in this head-to-head comparison. The results underscore the Mustang’s status as a formidable contender in the performance vehicle market.
