The 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC: Specs and Details

The Mustang lineup has a new apex predator. Positioned to bridge the gap between the standard Dark Horse and the ultra-exclusive Mustang GTD, the 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC is a supercharged, track-focused evolution of the S650 platform. Developed by Ford Racing engineers, the "SC" (officially standing for Supercharged) adopts significant hardware and aerodynamic lessons directly from Ford's GT3 and GTD programs.

Powertrain: The Return of the 5.2L V8

At the heart of the Dark Horse SC is the supercharged 5.2L V8. While final horsepower figures are still under wraps, it is expected to sit comfortably between the 500 hp of the standard Dark Horse and the 815 hp of the GTD. This powertrain will utilize the Tremec 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which was previously used on the GT500 platform.

Chassis & Suspension

Ford didn't just add power; they focused on shedding weight and improving handling. By attacking unsprung mass and refining geometry, the Dark Horse SC promises significantly sharper turn-in and feedback.

• Weight Reduction: The Track Pack sheds 150 pounds via carbon-fiber wheels and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes.
• Forged Components: Standard steel suspension links have been replaced with forged aluminum links, and paired with a lightweight magnesium strut tower brace.
• MagneRide Evolution: Next-generation MagneRide dampers feature specific hardware and software tuning to manage revised spring rates and front/rear knuckles
• Variable Traction Control: Directly from the GTD, this system offers five levels of adjustment via steering wheel controls to help drivers find the limit safely.

Aerodynamics

The Dark Horse SC’s silhouette is defined by functional aero. A new aluminum hood features a massive vent capable of generating 2.5 times the downforce of the standard Dark Horse hood.

In the rear, engineers developed a unique ducktail-shaped decklid that increases the efficiency of the carbon-fiber wing by 10% without requiring a steeper angle of attack. At 180 mph, the Track Pack produces a staggering 620 pounds of rear downforce, keeping the custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 R tires planted firmly on the asphalt.

Interior

Inside, the Dark Horse SC borrows heavily from the GTD’s racing ergonomics:

• Steering Wheel: A leather-wrapped, flat-bottom wheel with a 12 o’clock stripe and integrated performance toggles.
• Track Pack Seating: Manual Recaro sport seats (available with Teal or Space Gray accents) and a rear-seat delete to maximize weight savings.
• Special Edition: A limited-run variant features 3D-printed titanium paddle shifters and a gear selector, further highlighting the car's connection to the GTD program.

The Dark Horse SC represents a total integration of racing hardware into a road-legal package, offering a level of precision and performance that sets a new standard for the Mustang stable.

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