2024 EcoBoost Mustang vs Mustang Dark Horse

With the release of the 7th-generation Mustang, Ford introduced a brand-new special edition called the Mustang Dark Horse. This Mustang was given an all-new 4th-gen 5.0L Coyote V8 that'll make the most power in a non-Shelby Mustang ever. However, the new S650 Mustang EcoBoost is no slouch either. It gets a brand-new version of the 2.3L turbocharged I4 that was in the S550 EcoBoost.

So, besides the obvious powertrain differences, what separates the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse from the EcoBoost? This guide will lay out the pros and cons of both cars to help you decide what's right for you.

For a comparison of the other 2024 Mustang trims, check out our 2024 EcoBoost vs GT and 2024 Dark Horse vs GT trim comparisons.

Exterior Comparison

The 2024 Dark Horse and EcoBoost, while both Mustangs, have completely different styling. The Dark Horse is designed for top-level performance while the EcoBoost is more of an every-man's car.

Rear Wing

Starting from the rear, both the Dark Horse and EcoBoost look significantly different. The Mustang Dark Horse has a large and aggressive rear wing with a steep angle to create more downforce in corners. On the other hand, the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang lacks a spoiler altogether.

Badges

The EcoBoost doesn't get any front fender emblems like we see on the V8 Mustangs. It does get the classic "pony" emblem on the front grille and rear trunk lid that's been a staple of Mustangs since 1965, but that's it.

Meanwhile, the Dark Horse gets plenty of cool badges. While it does have the same "pony" badge on its front grille like the EcoBoost, it also has the new "Dark Horse" emblem on the rear trunk lid and front fenders. This gives the Dark Horse a distinct look from the EcoBoost and the GT.

Front End

The front features the largest exterior difference between the EcoBoost and the Mustang Dark Horse. Ford decided that for the S650 generation, the EcoBoost would have a completely different front end from the GT and Dark Horse. The EcoBoost doesn't receive the hood scoop, air intake ducts in the front grille and bumper, or front splitter the Dark Horse gets. This leads to a much less aggressive look for the EcoBoost compared to the Dark Horse. But it does leave a blank canvas for aftermarket improvements.

2024 EcoBoost vs Dark Horse Mustang Wheels

The EcoBoost is equiped with a set of multi-spoke, square 17" x 7.5" wheels with a bronze finish. While these S650 Mustang wheels don't look bad, they're definitely less interesting than what the Dark Horse offers.

The Dark Horse features a set of similar-looking 5-spoke wheels as standard. But, you can upgrade to an exclusive set of great-looking carbon fiber wheels that weigh just 20.1 lbs each. It's also important to note that the Dark Horse has staggered wheel sizes for better performance. The fronts are 19" x 9.5" and the rears are 19" x 10".

Interior Differences

The interiors of the EcoBoost and the Dark Horse are both very similar, however there are a few key differences. You get the heavily revised S650 Mustang digital instrument cluster and 13.2" infotainment screen running SYNC 4. The center consoles of both cars also share looks and a lot of common features. You get the same flat-bottom steering wheel in both vehicles.

When it comes to differences between the EcoBoost and Dark Horse interiors, there's a few important ones to consider. In the Dark Horse, you get Recaro seats and Ford's new electronic drift brake as standard. While you can get both if you upgrade to the Performance Pack, the EcoBoost does not receive them as standard.

2024 EcoBoost vs Mustang Dark Horse Engine and Power Comparison

The Dark Horse will feature Ford's brand new, 4th-generation Coyote V8. First introduced in 2010, the Coyote V8 has been Ford's flagship V8 over the last decade plus of Mustangs. While the Coyote engine has evolved over several generations, the 4th promises to be the best yet. In the Dark Horse, the new Coyote makes 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque.

The Dark Horse also features a few other upgrades. It receives a uniqely balanced crankshaft and forged piston connecting rods to handle the higher cylinder pressures and piston speeds present in the most powerful non-Shelby Mustang ever. You also get strengthened camshafts and a 7,500 RPM redline.

While the EcoBoost doesn't make quite as much power, it still packs quite the punch. You can expect the EcoBoosst to make 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. There is a significant power gap between the two Mustangs, but the EcoBoost still has plenty of power to have fun on a backroad.

In case you are interested in adding power through aftermarket parts, It is unclear at this time whether the S650 Mustang ECU can be tuned.

2024 EcoBoost vs Dark Horse Transmission Comparison

The Dark Horse comes equiped with the Tremec TR-3160, 6-speed manual. This is a significant upgrade over the MT-82 manual transmission found in the GT and improves the performance of the Dark Horse greatly. Ford has used this transmission in the past in the 2016-2020 GT350 and 2021 Mustang Mach 1. The TR-3160 was developed with high-torque applications in mind, making it the perfect transmission for the S650 Mustang. You're also able to get a 10-speed automatic if you prefer.

The EcoBoost only comes with a 10-speed automatic. If you're looking for a manual transmission in your Mustang, the Dark Horse or the GT are your only options.

Handling and Suspension Differences

While both cars are built on the same chassis, the Dark Horse has a clear advantage in terms of handling.

The Dark Horse features a lightweight, Ford Performance-designed strut tower brace and K-brace to improve chassis rigidity. This gives the driver increased steering response and grip. The Dark Horse also gets a Torsen rear differential, Pirelli P-ZERO tires, and Magneride suspension. All of these upgrades give you superior handling compared to the EcoBoost.

While the Dark Horse already outperforms the EcoBoost, it gets even better with the optional Handling Package. This 2024 Mustang package option offers a unique rear wing with an integrated Gurney flap. Along with the rear wing, you also get stiffer springs, large front and rear sway bars, and wider Pirelli Trofeo tires to go with wider front and rear wheels.

However, the new EcoBoost does get some handling upgrades. The new optional Performance Pack for the EcoBoost makes substantial improvements to the S650's stock handling and suspension. The Performance Pack adds Magneride suspension and the new electronic drift brake. You also get access to six different driving modes: normal, sport, slippery, track, drag strip, and custom. These change the handling characteristics of your S650 and are available on both the EcoBoost and Dark Horse.

Which Mustang Is Better: Mustang Dark Horse or EcoBoost?

While it is true that the Dark Horse outperforms the EcoBoost in almost every category, that's by design. When Ford built the Dark Horse, they were facing down the final generation of gas-powered Mustangs ever. They knew that they needed a halo car to give long-time fans exactly what they wanted. That's what the Dark Horse is. A passion-project that's the perfect way to kick off the S650 generation. While the EcoBoost may not be the Dark Horse, it's still an amazing car in its own right and comes in at a lower price point.

While not the electric Mustang we thought was possible, you can't go wrong with either. The Dark Horse is everything that a naturally-aspirated Mustang should be, while the EcoBoost is a finely-tuned sports car ready to tear it up in the twisties. The Dark Horse also has a dedicated track edition named the Dark Horse R. Whatever you decide when the 2024 Mustang launches, you won't be disappointed.

If you're interested in modding your S650 when you get your hands on it, check out our selection of S650 parts. We have everything you need to build your 2024 Mustang to fit your needs.

Interested in how the S650 EcoBoost compares to the other Mustangs in the 2024 lineup? Check out this article on the 2024 Ecoboost vs GT.

Sources: 2024 Mustang Preliminary Technical Specs, Ford

Image Credit: Ford