BMW.SG | BMW Singapore Owners Community The Ultimate BMW Community – Established Since 2001
In high-performance coupes, the 2023 BMW M2 and the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse represent pinnacle offerings for enthusiasts seeking thrill over utility. This comparison throws these two powerful machines into the ring to determine which coupe delivers the most visceral driving experience.
The BMW M2 arrives with 453 horsepower, powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine. It features the Carbon package, including carbon-fibre trim and seats, enhancing aesthetics and function. This setup, along with a finely tuned chassis and an unlocked top speed, promises an engaging ride for $75,345. In contrast, the Mustang Dark Horse, priced slightly higher at $78,755, boasts 500 horsepower from a 5.0-liter V-8 engine. It comes equipped with the Dark Horse Handling package, including upgraded dampers and Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tyres, designed for track and street performance.
Car and Driver’s test route stretched from Los Angeles to Borrego Springs and back. This puts the cars through various challenges, including tight hairpins and high-speed sweepers. Both the M2 and the Mustang showcased their unique strengths—the M2’s agility and the Mustang’s raw power. The BMW’s cabin is packed with technology, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, offering extensive customizability with a focus on performance settings. On the other hand, Ford’s muscle coupe blends nostalgia with modern tech. It sports a sizable 13.2-inch infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster that nods to vintage Mustangs, although infotainment glitches somewhat mar it.
Performance-wise, the M2 outpaced the Dark Horse in straight-line metrics, hitting 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, compared to the Mustang’s 4.3 seconds. However, the Mustang’s superior braking and the auditory delight of its V-8 could sway some hearts. Regarding handling, the M2’s lighter frame and responsive steering made it easier to manoeuvre through tight corners. At the same time, the Mustang’s heft was noticeable but not unwieldy, thanks to its precise steering setup.
Choosing between the BMW M2 and the Ford Mustang Dark Horse ultimately comes down to personal preference: refined agility or muscular nostalgia. The BMW offers a modern, tech-focused approach with easier daily usability. In contrast, the Mustang appeals with its classic V-8 charisma and slightly superior track-oriented features.
