- 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC brings GTD hardware for realistic money.
- 5.2-liter V8 is mated to a seven-speed DCT; no hp figures released yet.
- Optional Track Pack adds carbon wheels and 620 lbs of downforce.
Ford’s Mustang GTD is an extraordinary machine, but the limited production run and supercar-sized $325,000 price tag means most of us will never own one. But here comes salvation in the form of the 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC, a brand new pony that gets some of the best GTD bits and shouldn’t cost the earth.
At its core is a supercharged 5.2 liter V8 borrowed from the GTD, and paired exclusively with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. The GTD makes 815 hp (826 PS), a big jump from the 500 hp (507 PS) generated by the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Dark Horse, but Ford hasn’t confirmed final power figures for the SC. We’re guessing it’ll be a little less muscular.
Also: People Laughed At The Mustang GTD’s Price, Then Bought Hundreds Anyway
Development took place alongside the GTD and the GT3 race car at Sebring and Virginia International Raceway. That process directly shaped the Dark Horse SC’s hardware. Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, forged suspension links, a magnesium strut brace, and next generation MagneRide dampers all come from that shared work.
Track Pack
Go for the optional Track Pack and you gain carbon fiber wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, and revised aerodynamics. The combination of a ducktail decklid and rear wing produces 620 lbs (281 kg) of rear downforce at 180 mph (290 kmh), while the vented aluminum hood improves cooling and front end balance. The Track Pack also removes about 150 lbs (68 kg) from the curb weight.
GTD in your hands
Inside, the Dark Horse SC adopts the flat bottom steering wheel from the GTD with integrated performance controls, along with Alcantara and carbon fiber trim. Optional Recaro seats are available, and the Track Pack removes the rear seats entirely in favor of a storage shelf for track equipment.
Ford has also integrated a variable traction control system with five selectable levels and a fully off mode, allowing drivers to adjust the car’s behavior to their skill level and conditions. Or just prove to millions on YouTube how little skill they have. Come on, you know it’s going to happen.
There’s no official word on prices, but since a stock 5.0 Dark Horse costs $64,080 in base trim and $69,075 in Premium trim, you can probably expect the SC to cross the $100k mark with some choice options. But that’s still a whole lot more affordable than the GTD.
