We're Driving the Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Ask Us Anything

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is a fresh take on an icon. Ford wanted a pony car with track capability and road friendliness at a (relatively) reasonable price. A 500-horsepower menace resulted, equipped with the most powerful naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 of any Mustang ever.

Back in August, I spent time with this car on the track, and it was pretty damn good. Now I've got the Dark Horse in my driveway for a week and I'm curious to see what it's like to live with. This one has the 10-speed automatic instead of the six-speed manual (boo!), and a standard MagneRide adaptive suspension. This test car forgoes the optional Handling Pack, which stiffens the suspension and adds stickier P Zero Trofeo RS tires. But for around-town use, that's fine.

The Dark Horse starts at $60,865 with destination, and this car is about $69,505 with options. The automatic is an extra $1,595, the Recaro seats are $1,995, and a few more options hike the price. But compared to what BMW, Nissan, and Porsche ask for their alternatives, the Mustang Dark Horse is a screaming deal.

So, I've already spent a few days in the Dark Horse and am eager to get more time in Ford's most-potent Mustang. Thus far, there are a few things I like about this car, and some I could do without.

The New Ford Mustang