The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse and the BMW M2 Got at it

With the rise of the electric vehicle industry, some traditional sports cars are losing their appeal. The Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger will retire soon, leaving Ford’s Mustang as the only remaining American pony car. So, what car will be a worthy opponent for the new and improved Mustang now that it will no longer have a domestic rival for the second time in two decades? A head-to-head test between the Mustang Dark Horse and the BMW M2 revealed a true victor of the sports car segment; let’s dive in.

The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse is the most powerful ‘Stang from the Blue Oval ever. Although it may not be as exotic or powerful as the previous models with the GT350 or GT500 nameplates, it still delivers excellent performance comparable to the previous-generation Mach 

The Dark Horse comes with some unique features that set it apart from the standard Mustang GT, such as an increased power output of 500 horsepower, standard MagneRide dampers, and a stiffer suspension with larger anti-roll bars, a strut tower, and K-brace. The Ford Sports car also features Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brake calipers, a Torsen limited-slip differential, an upgraded cooling package, and Pirelli P Zero tires to ensure a smooth and safe ride.

Then there’s the 2023 BMW M2, which replaces the F87 model with the new G87-generation BMW M2. The updated model is more extensive, with an additional 4.1 inches in length, 2.1 inches in wheelbase, and 1.3 inches in width. Although the BMW sports car gained around 320 pounds of extra weight, the performance of the new M2 remains unaffected. The BMW M2 comes to life through a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six engine that delivers an impressive 453 horsepower, the same as the larger M3. 

Despite their varying performance approaches and target markets, both cars share similarities as two-door, four-seat sports coupes that require manual shifting. 

These Sports Cars are Unparalleled in Performance 

The Mustang Dark Horse is a high-performance vehicle with a more powerful version of Ford’s latest Coyote 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The naturally aspirated engine produces 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque, with peak horsepower accomplished at 7,250 rpm and torque maxing out at 4,900 rpm. The engines consist of forged steel connecting rods, a uniquely balanced crankshaft, strengthened camshafts, and plasma arc wire transfer cylinder liners. While the difference between the Dark Horse’s 500 horsepower and the GT 5.0-liter engine’s 486 horsepower (when equipped with the company’s active dual exhaust) may seem small, it’s important to note that this is Blue Oval’s first Dark Horse and not its last.

The Mustang Dark Horse’s V8 engine forges power transmitted through a Tremec TR-3160 six-speed manual transmission. However, the 10-speed automatic transmission is also available and is faster in every aspect. The power propels through the rear differential, which has a 3.73:1 gear ratio and a Torsen limited-slip differential.

The 2024 BMW M2 excels through a robust twin-turbo S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine, which generates an impressive 453 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The new BMW welcomes a nine-horsepower increase over the previous-generation M2. Although the total torque for the BMW M2 is 12 lb-ft less than the Dark Horse, it still delivers a consistent performance, with peak torque arriving at a diesel-like 2,650 rpm and remaining relatively flat across the entire rev range. The BMW sports car features a six-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels via a 3.46:1 gear set with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. A new eight-speed automatic transmission is also available for the 2023 model, resulting in quicker track times, similar to the Dark Horse.

Exterior Appeal 

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse has unique exterior styling features, distinguishing the sports car from other seventh-generation Mustang models. The headlamps at the front have a darker tint and a shadow graphic. The mesh openings of the grille are tiny replicas of the grille’s shape and finished in gloss black. Trapezoidal side intakes feed each airbox. The front fascia also has black “fangs.” The Ford Pony has side skirts, a rear diffuser, and darkened quad exhaust tips. There are unique Dark Horse badges on the fenders and decklid featuring a stylized horseshoe framing a menacing forward-facing horsehead. Overall, the Dark Horse is fearless and aggressive, making it the most intimidating model among the new S650 Mustang models.

The 2023 BMW M2 has a design language similar to that of the previous model, which many fans can consider safe and uninspiring. The BMW sports car still boasts short overhangs, wide wheel arches, and a defined rear diffuser. Despite being more extensive, it’s almost the same size as its predecessor. Luckily, the M2 didn’t adopt the massive kidney grilles found on the larger M3 and M4 models. The most noticeable new design elements of the M2 are the square-shaped intakes on either side of the reworked front air dam, different from the base 2 Series coupe’s triangular pieces.

Interior Appeal 

The interior of the BMW M2 is more technologically advanced than the Mustang’s. The most noticeable feature is the large, curved LED display, which has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central information display. A potential BMW M2 driver can control the system using touch, console-mounted buttons, and a rotary knob or by using the steering wheel-mounted M-Mode buttons, which are customizable. While the lack of physical HVAC controls is disappointing, the stereo has a volume knob. The BMW sports car has ten levels of DSC (dynamic stability control), numerous drive modes, a lap timer, and a drift analyzer. The system is complex, and navigating it all requires a deep understanding of modern BMWs or the skills of a teenage gamer.

In comparison, the Mustang Dark Horse is a more straightforward car. It features a new 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen, which are both easy to use. The menus are more accessible, and the optional drive modes are easy to locate and understand. The interior is comfortable and familiar, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a straightforward infotainment system.

So, Which Sports Car is the Winner? 

The Dark Horse is a remarkable sports coupe that boasts exceptional performance numbers and aggressive styling, and it is also practical enough for everyday use. Its powerful V-8 engine makes it a fantastic choice for Mustang fans and a top-notch sports coupe overall. After a head-to-head comparison, the Dark Horse emerged as the clear winner. Although convincing German car enthusiasts to opt for a Ford vehicle may be challenging, it is worth noting that the M2 is also an impressive car, albeit inferior to the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

Test Drive Your 2023 Ford Mustang at Kenny Ross Ford South 

Looking for the new 2023 Ford Mustang because you know it will blow your mind? Look no further than Kenny Ross Ford South! With a wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, you will find the perfect car for your needs. And if you’re ready to get behind the wheel of your dream car, apply for auto financing today! But if you’re not ready to part ways with your current car, don’t worry – our expert technicians are here to provide top-notch service and repairs. With sixty years of experience, you can trust that you’re in good hands at Kenny Ross Ford South. So why wait? See what we have in store for you today!

Photo Source/Copyright: Media Ford