In no particular order, two American muscle icons, Ford’s Mustang Dark Horse and Cadillac’s CT4‑V Blackwing, met recently in battle on a drag strip at a U‑Drags event. Spoilers ahead—the Mustang won. The Mustang crushed it in every way, from acceleration to cornering. This latest match up confirms that the Ford Mustang still reigns supreme when it comes to unrestrained speed, tailored tuning, and of course, the unmistakable V8 roar.
Lightning-Fast Acceleration
When it comes to speed, the Mustang Dark Horse is a class above. It goes 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds, which is at least a little ahead of the CT4-V’s time of 4.5 seconds. In other words, on the quarter mile, the Mustang gets there in 12.5 seconds at 117 mph; it’s quarter-mile time was 12.8 seconds at 113 mph . The Mustang roars with a naturally aspirated 500 hp 5.0L V8 that is muscle-car raw and provides instant throttle response. Not to speculate, but the V8 can demonstrate how much of an engine a classic V8 can be.
Superior Handling & Grip
It is important to note that this test involved not just pure speed in a straight line but tight braking and cornering zones as well. The Mustang was once again superior, with a cornering force of 1.30 g compared to 1.26 g for the Cadillac. This is made possible by the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires and the tuned chassis that provides such confidence and precision, whereas the Cadillac could not approach the grip of the Mustang, even with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. For a thrilling day at the track or any twisty canyon road, the Dark Horse is just more responsive and composed.
Iconic V8 vs. Turbocharged V6
Powering the Dark Horse is a natural 5.0L V8 that generates 500 hp and 418 lb-ft. Cadillac's 3.6L twin-turbo V6 is also a strong performer at 472 hp and 445 lb-ft and delivers a lot of torque. Horsepower isn't the only thing to consider, there's emotion and response. There are few things more satisfying than the instantaneous response of a V8. The sound from the Dark Horse is aggressive and satisfying. Americans have that desire to feel the power, the rawness of a V8. The turbo V6 has strength, and some aggression, but lacks that rawness. When it comes to emotional ride, the outcome is that the Mustang wins easily.
Side-by-Side Spec Comparison
| Feature | Mustang Dark Horse | Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing |
| Engine | 5.0L V8 – 500 hp / 418 lb-ft | 3.6L twin-turbo V6 – 472 hp |
| 0–60 mph | 4.3 seconds | 4.5 seconds (approx.) |
| Quarter-mile | 12.5 s @ 117 mph | 12.8 s @ 113 mph |
| Cornering (G-force) | ~1.30 g | ~1.26 g |
| Tires | Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS | Michelin Pilot Sport 4S |
What This Means for You
Looking for a weekend track toy or just a fun daily driver? Here's the rundown
- Performance: Obviously more speed and better handling in the Mustang.
- Emotional: Nothing beats that V8 rumble.
- Value: Both offer value for money; Mustang is definitely more performance-oriented, while Cadillac is more luxury-oriented.
- Practicality: Cadilac gives you a 4-door car with nice comfort; Mustang is a fun 2-door muscle car.
If you want to have a thrilling experience and that V8 buzz, I would go with the Mustang Dark Horse as it is a fun ride. however, if you are looking for a balance of power, luxury, and practicality, then the CT4-V is still an option.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
