In MotorTrend’s published tests, the 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC was quicker to 60 mph and through the quarter-mile than the quickest 2020 Shelby GT500 the outlet had tested: 2.9 seconds and 10.8 seconds at 131.8 mph, versus 3.6 seconds and 11.3 seconds at 131.6 mph. These are results from separate tests, not a same-condition head-to-head run.
MotorTrend’s numbers: Dark Horse SC vs. GT500
MotorTrend’s October 6, 2026 article reports its test of the 2026 Dark Horse SC alongside the quickest 2020 Shelby GT500 in the outlet’s prior testing. The results show the SC ahead in elapsed time, while the GT500’s quarter-mile trap speed was fractionally lower.
| MotorTrend test | 0–60 mph | Quarter-mile |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC | 2.9 seconds | 10.8 seconds at 131.8 mph |
| 2020 Shelby GT500 (MotorTrend’s quickest tested example) | 3.6 seconds | 11.3 seconds at 131.6 mph |
On those figures, the SC’s reported 0–60 time is 0.7 second shorter and its quarter-mile elapsed time is 0.5 second shorter. Its trap speed is 0.2 mph higher. Because the cars were tested separately, the comparison does not establish how they would perform against each other under identical conditions. MotorTrend’s test report.
Why another outlet’s results differ
Car and Driver published its own measurements on October 6, 2026. Its Dark Horse SC ran to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds and covered the quarter-mile in 10.8 seconds at 134 mph; its GT500 figures were 3.6 seconds and 11.4 seconds at 132 mph. These are separate tests and should not be combined with MotorTrend’s results as though they came from one test session.
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| Car and Driver test | 0–60 mph | Quarter-mile |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Horse SC | 3.0 seconds | 10.8 seconds at 134 mph |
| GT500 | 3.6 seconds | 11.4 seconds at 132 mph |
The differences between outlets’ published figures are a reminder to keep each result attached to the publisher and its test. Car and Driver’s comparison.
Powertrain and tire context
MotorTrend lists both cars with a 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Its specifications give the Dark Horse SC 795 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque, compared with 760 hp and 625 lb-ft for the GT500. Those figures provide context, but horsepower and torque alone do not establish why the tested elapsed times differed.
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| MotorTrend-listed specification | Dark Horse SC | GT500 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 | 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 |
| Transmission | Seven-speed dual-clutch | Seven-speed dual-clutch |
| Horsepower | 795 hp | 760 hp |
| Torque | 660 lb-ft | 625 lb-ft |
| Listed test-car tires | Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R; 305/30ZR20 front, 315/30ZR20 rear | Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2; 305/30R20 front, 315/30R20 rear |
The tire information identifies the setups listed for MotorTrend’s tested cars; it does not isolate the effect of tire choice on either result. For a replacement purchase, confirm fitment, tire ratings, and current availability for the specific vehicle. MotorTrend’s report lists the tested specifications.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the comparison does—and does not—show
MotorTrend’s published numbers support the conclusion that its tested Dark Horse SC posted quicker acceleration figures than the quickest 2020 GT500 in its earlier tests. They do not prove a controlled, same-day comparison, a universal result for every example, or that a particular specification caused the gap.
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Ford says the Dark Horse SC Track Pack adds GTD-derived Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes. That is package information, not evidence explaining the acceleration result. See Ford’s Dark Horse SC model information and Ford Racing’s Dark Horse SC information.
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