4 Minutes
An Epic Mustang Showdown: S650 Dark Horse Meets S550 Mach 1 and Shelby GT350R
The world of American muscle cars thrives on fierce competition, and there’s no better way to highlight those rivalries than a drag race pitting the new against the established legends. Sam from the popular Sam CarLegion YouTube channel recently orchestrated an adrenaline-fueled face-off that brought together three Ford Mustang icons: the all-new S650 Dark Horse, the revered S550 Mach 1, and the ferocious Shelby GT350R. Set on an untreated tarmac, this shootout would test performance, power, and pedigree across Mustang generations.
Vehicle Design and Appearance: Sleek Evolution vs. Aggressive Classics
The seventh-generation S650 Mustang Dark Horse introduces aggressive new styling cues and a thoroughly modernized interior but, according to many enthusiasts, it represents more of a refined facelift of the previous S550 platform rather than a ground-up reinvention. With prices surging for new Mustangs, buyers are left questioning whether the latest model offers enough improvement to justify picking it over its celebrated predecessors.
In this confrontation, the S650 Dark Horse lines up in striking dark livery, while the formidable S550 lineup features the white-black-orange Mach 1 and a blue-striped Shelby GT350R, both dressed to impress and ready to defend their legacy.
Engine Specs and Chassis Breakdown
The S650 Mustang Dark Horse is equipped with a robust 5.0-liter Coyote V8, channeling 500 horsepower to the rear wheels. The Mach 1 shares the same Coyote V8 but is tuned for 480 horsepower—delivering 20 more than the standard S550 Mustang GT but 20 less than the Dark Horse. Both cars feature Tremec six-speed manual gearboxes, though the Mach 1 also offers an optional 10-speed automatic and a custom exhaust setup.
Meanwhile, the Shelby GT350R stands as the apex predator of the trio, engineered for the racetrack. Its 5.2-liter flat-plane crank V8 pumps out an impressive 526 horsepower, paired with a crisp six-speed manual and a finely-tuned chassis. In performance circles, the GT350R is revered for its razor-sharp handling and purposeful, stripped-down demeanor.
Performance and Drag Strip Results
Despite boasting the highest power figure, the S650 Dark Horse faces a significant disadvantage: added weight. In head-to-head rolling races starting from 32 mph (50 kph) and 49 mph (80 kph), the newer Mustang struggles to translate its power to results. Time and again, it slips behind as the Mach 1 and Shelby GT350R wage their own battle for dominance, with the GT350R consistently edging ahead.
Traditional quarter-mile drag tests further highlight the S650's struggle. In one memorable heat, an ill-timed burnout performed during the run leaves the Dark Horse far behind, looking every bit the novice. Even as the attempts are refined, the newer Mustang can’t outrun its more experienced stablemates. Final race results put the Shelby GT350R ahead at 12.1 seconds, the Mach 1 at 12.7, and the Dark Horse at 12.8 seconds over the quarter mile.
Market Position and Buying Considerations
With its assertive styling, upgraded interior tech, and increased price tag, the S650 Mustang Dark Horse appeals to those craving the latest and greatest. However, for drivers who crave raw performance and track-bred precision, the lighter and more focused S550 offerings—especially the Shelby GT350R—remain irresistible choices. This drag strip duel underscores an important consideration: sometimes, newer doesn’t mean faster or more fun.
The Verdict: Mustang Heritage Still Rules the Road
This head-to-head test by CarLegion serves as a reminder that legacy and engineering refinement can still outrun the latest evolution. As Mustang fans debate which model deserves a spot in their garage, these real-world results provide plenty of food for thought—proving that sometimes, an older generation can still steal the spotlight from its successor.
Source: autoevolution
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