My FH5 Log: COBRA Meeting

The COBRA version is the most potent variant of the fourth-generation Ford Mustang and the kind of Mustang we, 90s kids, fondly remember. Here in Forza Horizon 5, let's thrust through time uncovering the most potent Mustang.

We begin with the 1995 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R, the last Exclusive Prize Car of Forza Horizon 5 that I got from the Midnight Muscle Storm Season Playlist.

The fourth-generation Ford Mustang was launched in 1994 and although it runs on the same Fox Body platform as the third-generation model, it features a muscular and round exterior design while staying true to the Mustang's roots. It was offered with the choice of a 3.8L V6 engine with 145HP of power and the 215HP 4.9L V8 engine for the GT model. The Cobra model features a GT40-style 5.0L V8 engine producing 240hp of power. Mated to a 5-speed Borg-Warner MT, it sprints from 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 140mph.

The 1995MY Cobra R saw the V8 engine's size increase by 5.0L to 5.8L, resulting in 300hp while mated to a Tremec 5-speed MT. The only drawback is that only those who carry a racing license or manage a race team to drive one.

When the fourth-generation Mustang received a minor change in 1999, donning Ford's New Edge design language, it didn't take long until the Cobra R joined the lineup as a special limited-edition model. Limited to 300 units, the 2000MY Ford SVT Cobra R is powered by a shorter 5.4L DOHC Modular V8 engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, producing 385HP of power.

In the twilight of the SN-95 Mustang came the cream of the crop, the 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra. This model is powered by the supercharged 4.6L Terminator V8 engine with 390hp of power.

With the COBRA meeting done, it's time to let the cobras clash around Guanajuato's Bola Ocho to see how potent the Mustang Cobra came in this generation. Let's roll the tape.

Here are the results...

1995 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R - 1m02.996s

2000 Ford SVT Cobra R - 1m01.061s

2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra - 1m00.761s

"Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines"! The 2003 Mustang SVT Cobra, with its Terminator V8 engine, is truly the apex predator of the SN-95 Mustang lineage. Although it is the last model to carry the Cobra name, it perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Mustang for kids who grew up in the 90s.

With the last two cars from the game's final series update, the grand total in Forza Horizon 5's car roster is 891. That's it. 891 cars, including DLC cars, prize cars, and Forza Edition cars. It's a shame that they won't be adding any more after this, there are only a few days left before Mi Ultimo Adios.

Until then, let's enjoy the final days of Forza Horizon 5. Let's make the final moments of Horizon Mexico special for this will be the final stop of the Forza Horizon saga. It's a shame there won't be another Forza Horizon after this.

Goodbye, and good luck!

My FH5 Log: Not-So-Pretty Derby

What do the Mustang and the Bronco have in common? They both feature horse emblems. Although they represent different horse breeds, driving these vehicles in Forza Horizon 5 is certainly enjoyable.

In their current generation models, the only enjoyable ones I drove in the game are the 500HP V8-powered Ford Mustang Dark Horse and the turbo V6-powered, off-road capable Ford Bronco Raptor. Like I said, they're different horse breeds but they're a lot of fun driving them.

Let's have a quick review of these machines, shall we?

Let's begin with the Bronco Raptor, the badder version of today's Bronco.

The Ford Bronco is a popular off-road-inspired vehicle that appeals to both enthusiasts and everyday drivers. In 2022, the Bronco received a significant update with the introduction of the Raptor variant, which features a range of powerful and advanced specifications that distinguish it from earlier models.

The first-ever Ford Bronco Raptor is equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering an impressive 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing excellent acceleration and high-performance driving capabilities. Additionally, the Bronco Raptor is designed with HOSS 4.0 technology and features FOX Live Valve 3.1 internal bypass semi-active dampers, along with specially developed 37-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires.

Now, let's recap on the Ford Mustang Dark Horse, the purist-friendly Mustang for those who want to let it loose.

Being a track-focused road car that rivals the Porsche 911 GT3, the Mustang Dark Horse's 5.0L Coyote V8 engine produces 500HP, making it the most powerful naturally-aspirated V8-powered Mustang ever made. It is mated exclusively with the TREMEC 6-speed manual gearbox with rev-matching and no-lift shifting. In addition to its track-focused dynamics, the Dark Horse features a Gen-3 MagneRide Damping System and Brembo brake system.

Do you remember the story of the Ford Bronco beating the Shelby GT500 at the Hallett Motor Racing Circuit by taking shortcuts around the track? That was a long time ago but with the dirt track in Horizon Mexico grounds, let's see if the dirt favors the Bronco despite being outpowered by the Mustang Dark Horse. No shortcuts and no corner-cutting. Just common sense with these two stallions.

Anyway, let's roll the tape.

And now, the results...

Mustang Dark Horse - 1m31.608s

Bronco Raptor - 1m33.160s

There's common sense working for you. Although the dirt track setting favors the Bronco Raptor, it looks like the more powerful Dark Horse claimed its revenge win for Team Mustang.

Whether it’s the world-proven track record of today's Ford Mustang or the off-road bravado of the current Ford Bronco, Ford is the final word in creating sensible vehicles for practical purposes everywhere. These horses are proud of the noble causes they've done.

EPILOGUE

Do you remember when I said that I still have many experiments with the Mustang Dark Horse since I drove it back in the Modern Horizons update? Sorry for the wait, but here it comes.

The Dark Horse of the Mustang stable deserves the role of...you guessed it...the Dark Horse of the AiPriVerse. I shall christen you Dark Chii...awww, too soon? I'm sorry, Chii Mamiya, but hey, it suits your personality.

Having grown respect for the Ford Bronco Raptor, I've decided to call my Bronco Raptor...Mei. As in, Mei Yoneme, one of the Liella girls. Suits her personality.

With their roles donned, both the Bronco Raptor and the Mustang Dark Horse are tackling some of the modest EventLab creations with the Dark Horse battling the odds in the EventLab re-enactment of a certain race track from a certain video game while the Bronco Raptor gets down and dirty while getting through narrow bridges. Let's roll the tapes.

Now that's what I called a Pretty Derby.

Although Ferrari is the alpha horse of the motoring realm, Ford's two horses have something that Ferrari doesn't have; individuality. The Mustang and the Bronco are the best horses Ford ever made and such lineage deserves a lot of respect.

With horses like these, the stampede will never end.

My FM Log: Black Label

The prize car for clearing the Mustang Tour in Forza Motorsport (Xbox Series X|S) before the November 27, 2024 deadline is another of the professionally-tuned sixth-generation Mustangs featured in the world of Forza; the Saleen S302 Black Label.

Based on the facelifted sixth-generation Ford Mustang, the Saleen S302 Black Label is the top-tier variant that enhances the capabilities of the standard Mustang.

For this model, Saleen has equipped the base Mustang's 5.0L V8 engine with a 2.6L screw-type supercharger and an intercooler system, featuring a 103mm throttle body that generates 12 psi of boost. It also includes 47 lb fuel injectors, a cold air induction system, a retuned ECU, and a Saleen-tuned exhaust system. By Saleen's standards, the Black Label boasts an impressive 340 horsepower increase over the standard V8-powered Mustang, all while maintaining Ford's full warranty.

To see how capable this near-800HP 'Stang by Saleen is, I return to Laguna Seca for a one-lap drive. Let's roll the tape.

My personal best in Seca in this car is 1m45.020s. Not quick as such but it proved its worth as one of the most formidable tuned 6th-gen Mustangs on the road and track.

Enjoy your new ride.

My FM Log: Big Boss

The Ford Mustang Boss 302 is undoubtedly one of the most successful muscle car racers in history, and this #15 Trans Am competitor is proof. Having won this car in Forza Motorsport's Update 13 Open Class Tour, the first of the game's Year 2 roadmap, it's time to get to know this motorsport legend.

The Mustang Boss 302 was built to directly respond to the Trans-Am racing. It was built to compete against Chevrolet's Camaro Z/28 and its racing program for the Boss 302 was spearheaded by Bud Moore Engineering and Carroll Shelby.

Driven by Parnelli Jones and George Follmer, the Boss 302 Mustang showcased successive results in the 1970 Trans-Am series. Such performance secured Ford the Manufacturers Championship, and Jones, its driver, was coronated the 1970 Trans-Am champion.

With a quick introduction done, it's time to take this #15 Mustang Boss 302 Trans Am racer on a quick lap across Laguna Seca, the track where two Boss 302s crossed the checkered flag and got away without facing disqualification due to not having SCCA emblems on it. 

It's a true story because instead of facing disqualification along with its Javelin and Barracuda competitors, the chief steward gave them a warning saying they would fine them if these cars didn't have the required banners while heading to Dallas for their next race.

Long story short but you get the point. Anyway, let's roll the tape.

I did it in 1m49.930s. Not as quick as what the drivers did but it's worth reliving the moment.

Enjoy your new ride!

My FH5 Log: Goodbye Fiesta. Hello New Adventures.

 Ford says:

"It’s been a fun ride over the past years, and we couldn’t be prouder of our spirited, up-for-anything compact vehicle. Even though we will no longer be producing the Fiesta, we think we’ve got a few vehicles in our lineup to fill your criteria for versatility and driving enjoyment to seek out new adventures."

The people behind the Forza games forgot the memo and injected the not-for-US final-generation Fiesta into Forza Horizon 5 as the prize car from the High-Performance Dailies Wet Season Playlist.

Another Ford we never got in the States has popped up during the Forza Horizon 5 High-Performance Dailies update. What's it all about?

The Ford Fiesta Mk8 made its world premiere at Ford's Go Further 2016 event in Germany and it's available only in a hatchback body style in regular, the sporty ST, and the crossover-ish Active. The ST is powered by a 1.5L three-cylinder engine that produces 200PS of power and 290Nm of torque. Mated exclusively to a six-speed manual gearbox, it does 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds.

A limited-edition Fiesta ST Edition was unveiled. Available exclusively as a three-door and only 500 units were built and sold only for Europe, it dons the Azura Blue exterior paint and other exclusive features.

Production of the Fiesta ended in June 2023.

To give the not-for-US final-generation Fiesta a rather unnecessary sendoff it deserved, let's drive it to one of the latest Sprint races offered in this update. I've driven the not-for-US final-generation Ford Focus at the Rocosa Sprint as well as the final JDM Toyota Camry at the San Juan Sprint. Now, let's use the Valle Del Rio Sprint as the final destination for Europe's favorite little car. Roll the tape.

Shame.

The Ford Fiesta is a great car. It's stylish, affordable, and fun to drive. Unfortunately, Ford discontinued the Fiesta in the United States. If they had kept it in their lineup, it would have been one of the most affordable high-performance daily drivers on the market. Sadly, it's too late for that.

Ford Fiesta Retired. Now What?

The Ford Fiesta has been a great car for Europe since its introduction in 1976. It became one of the all-time greats, along with the legendary Cortina. For eight generations, this world-proven compact fulfilled its role within Ford's lineup as an efficient and easy-to-drive car that relatively well. Now that the Fiesta's story is done, its outstanding legacy will live on forever. 

Goodnight, Fiesta.

Lincoln Nautilus (2nd Gen)

The Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury SUV that was based on the Ford Edge. Sadly, the Edge has been discontinued, so the Nautilus is now on its own as it approaches its second generation.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

Starting below 52 grand in US Dollars plus additional costs, the second-generation Nautilus has matured into a sophisticated crossover that caters to even the most prolific East Coast elites with its new-era Lincoln styling, premium interior, and a suite of tech to toy with.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

By adopting the new-era Lincoln styling inspired by the Star Concept, the all-new Nautilus tries its hand at being frank and polite to its owners. Whether if its kitted with the available Jet Appearance package or indulged in the ultra-premium Black Label, the all-new Nautilus is all about making a statement while cruising from Brooklyn to Wall Street.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus interior

The biggest surprise is its new interior and by first impression, it feels like you're driving a concept car from the future. The Lincoln Digital Experience features the largest panoramic display in its class as well as the 11.1-inch center-stack Touchscreen with Google software involved. Call it flashy but its futuristic dashboard layout showcases the loud and proud side of Lincoln's calm, cool, and collected status.

Along with the Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging ports, and the Lincoln Connect, the all-new Nautilus features an available Digital Scent where drivers can insert whatever scent cartridges they have and release it on its air conditioning. There are different scent cartridges available to purchase so don't be shy.

To deliver sedan-riding comfort for this five-seater crossover, the all-new Nautilus features an array of relaxing features such as Perfect Position massaging seats, and the available Auto Air Refresh. As for boot space, it's between the 70 cu. ft. mark with the rear seats folded down.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

The all-new Nautilus features a choice of a 2.0L turbo and a 2.0L turbo hybrid with the latter producing 310HP of power and a combined EPA-estimated mileage of 30MPG courtesy of its CVT. The petrol variant is mated to an 8-speed AT. Although heavier than the old one, the all-new Nautilus tries hard to be civilized with its independent suspension setups, power 4-wheel disc with Anti-Lock Braking System, AdvanceTrrac with Roll Stability Control, and EPAS. It's spacious, versatile, and comfortable at its own pace.

Although an array of ADAS is not absent for the all-new Nautilus, it features Lincoln's BlueCruise 1.2 with improved versions of its ADAS features from hands-free driving, Lane Change Assist, the new In-Lane Repositioning ability, and other improvements worth noticing.

The all-new Lincoln Nautilus has matured even without its Ford Edge benefactor, and although costly to have one because it's "made in China", it tries to be calm, cool, and collected while navigating the East Coast traffic chaos at ease. 

New Yorkers, here's your new Nautilus.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

My FH5 Log: We appreciate your interest in the Focus

 “Unfortunately, Ford will no longer be building the Focus. But you can still contact your local dealer about availability and check out our other vehicles that might be perfect for you and your family.” This is what Ford said when production of the third-generation Focus, the last-ever Ford Focus sold in its home market, ended in 2018. When Ford said goodbye to the Focus after three generations, the world market forgot the memo and decided to have another go with the Focus, except this was overseas only.

This is what's known to be the Mk4 Ford Focus, the one Americans didn't get, and I won this car from Forza Horizon 5's High-Performance Dailies Wet Season Playlist. If we, the American people, still had the Ford Focus here, it would look like this.

The Mk4 Ford Focus runs on a C2 platform, which makes it roomier and stronger than the world-proven Mk3 model. It was launched in 2018 and is offered with a five-door hatchback, the Active, and the estate version. It received a minor change in 2021, and China received the 4-door sedan variant.

This variant featured in the game is the Ford Focus ST, the definitive hot-hatch driving experience. It's powered by a 2.3L EcoBoost engine producing 280PS of power and 420Nm of torque. It is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed AT that propels this hatchback to a 0-62mph time in 5.7 seconds. The ST Track Pack features KW coilover suspension with springs, Brembo 18" performance brakes, and Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires for track-level control.

The Ford Focus ST Edition is a limited-edition model that includes all of the features of the Focus ST but with some special touches. It has a special Azura Blue exterior paint with black contrast elements, Motion Blue interior stitching, Winter Pack, Driver Assistance Pack, and a B&O sound system. Only 300 of these cars were made and sold.

Let's see how the Ford Focus ST performs against the competition in one of the new sprint races. The results will leave you speechless.

Why are we so meek? We really wish the Ford Focus would remain in the native lineup but sadly, it's too late for that.

If Ford had retained the Focus in its native lineup, it would have become one of the most affordable high-performance daily driver's cars offered. Sadly, it's too late for that. The Mk3 Focus was the final Focus offered for Americans, and the Mk4 Focus turned out to be the true ending. With production ending next year, what's next? Here's your headline...

FORD FOCUS RETIRING. NOW WHAT?

We appreciate your interest in the Focus. Enjoy it while you can.

My FH5 Log: Tales of the #PrimeDay Beasts

I can't believe it's Prime Day again! 🤯 This annual event is when you can unleash the ultimate beasts in Forza Horizon 5 and let them tear up the track. 

For the third time in the game's history, the Horizon Community Choice update brought the McLaren MP4-12C to the Prime Day lineup. That means there are four ways to celebrate Prime Day in Forza Horizon 5. Time to get wild!

Ah yes, the beasts of Prime Day. They're the Jurassic menace I'm talking about because they are business and leisure without compromise. From the roaring sound of the 6.2L V8 engine of the F-150 SVT Raptor, the lightness of the Renaultsport Megane III, the track-honed performance of the MP4-12C, to the Zonda R's ultimate expression of speed, these unstoppable missiles are the heavy beasts only a few people are lucky enough to drive these while their concentration's on racing mode.

Whether it's the F-150 SVT Raptor battles against a HALO jumper, a Renaultsport Megane III battling against a Porsche Boxster, the McLaren MP4-12C surviving the Nurburgring, or the Zonda R going all-out, you can really hear these high-performance cannibals roaring to the sounds of prime. These heavy beasts really are badass. Yes!

From as far as Arizona and Rockingham, these heavy beasts come to Mexico to show that these unstoppable missiles were never past their prime, even if it was Prime Day. It's time to make these beasts roar!

THIS...IS...PRIME DAY!!!

The Jurassic menace from these four prime specimens made PRIME DAY the Jurassic menace you don't want to mess with. Life couldn't get even more exciting when you have the rare opportunity to drive these heavy beasts mixing business and leisure without compromise.

See you next PRIME DAY. 

(Tiger Roar)

My FH5 Log: America's Bests

As Americans are celebrating the birth of the so-called "greatest nation in the world," what better way to celebrate the day of grills and fireworks than driving the best sports cars of America; the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette?

Today's Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette have been radically changed, with the C8 Corvette now a mid-engined supercar, and the seventh-generation Ford Mustang being the last V8-powered American muscle car. 

The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964. It is known for its powerful engine, sleek design, and affordable price. The Chevrolet Corvette is another iconic American sports car that has been in production since 1953. It is known for its performance, handling, and luxurious interior.

Both the latest versions of America's best sports cars have such an impressive resume. The latest Mustang flexed its muscles in Formula Drift, NASCAR, IMSA, Supercars, and any other sports car racing series from the GT4 to the GT3 classes. It even got the chance to race in Le Mans as well. The Corvette, meanwhile, has a proven track record for being the last to become the LMGTE class champion before the WEC LMGT3 Class kicked in. The question now is, which of these American legends is the best?

I've picked the Horizon Mexico Circuit as the venue for my little ID4 duel and for this duel, I've picked the C8 Corvette Stingray and the Mustang Dark Horse. Although the C8 Corvette Stingray is five horses less compared to the Mustang Dark Horse, its supercar form and midship layout should give the Vette a fighting chance. The Mustang Dark Horse, well, it's Horizon Mexico after all. Roll the tape!

And now the results...

C8 Corvette - 1m12.906s

Mustang Dark Horse - 1m15.893s

In an unorthodox rivalry between the last V8 muscle car and the American midship supercar, the Corvette wins. 

The Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette are two of the most iconic American sports cars of all time, but they couldn't be more different. Still, both are excellent choices for a day of driving fun. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tearing up the track, you're sure to have a blast behind the wheel of either of these American classics.

Time to give these two a 2024 gun salute.

Godspeed America.