New Pony Car to Join the Herd Next Year
Photo Courtesy of Road and Track
October 25, 2022
Ford will be releasing the new edition of its ever-popular “pony” car in 2023. After making its first public appearance on September 14, it has been gaining traction, which is not something mustangs are known for. Working off the base of the 2014 S550, the new S650 is looking to improve upon the old model and, depending on who you ask, will not be electric most importantly. Mustang lead engineer Ed Krenz stated “Specifically, the platform is really fit for what we’re trying to do. Let’s upgrade everything a little bit where we can, but do it smartly.”
Ford is going back to Le Mans with the GT3 version of the 7th generation mustang. The Gt3 variant was released alongside 5 other special editions. The race car variants of the s650 start off with the Dark Horse S and the Dark Horse R. The Dark Horse S will be a stripped-down street car with the expected upgrades to make it a race car. The Dark Horse R will get new wheels, a larger gas tank, and a stiffer frame. It will also have unique serialization to allow it to be approved for different racing series.
Next, there is the GT4 car which will be used in the FIA GT racing series. The GT3 car gets a 5.4-liter coyote-based V8 and a lot more aerodynamic components. Ford is also producing a NASCAR version of the s650. And for everyone who just wants to go as fast as they can in a straight line like a true muscle car, there is the NHRA factory X version. For many people, the dark horse with 500 horsepower out of a coyote-based v8 is enough.
The performance package for the Mustang GT includes an electronic drift brake, it is basically a hand brake to help Mustang owners “control” their sliding away from the crowds. And the turbo 4-cylinder is still an option for people who want to look good but do not spend as much on gas. Many people claim the S650 looks like a Camaro but I couldn’t find a 2024 Camaro to compare it to.
All in all, the new mustang looks to be a fun addition to a dying breed of cars. While many people will miss true muscle cars, the movement towards electric vehicles looks to be unstoppable.