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: 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.

My FH5 Log: Dark Horseman

Back in the Horizon Race-Off update a long time ago, I got my hands on the all-new, seventh-generation Ford Mustang and it's a just cause for me to drive one.

However, this wasn't the only all-new Mustang in the FH5 stable present. The dark side of the all-new Mustang has awakened.

Here it is, the dark side of the all-new Ford Mustang has awakened.

This is the first-ever Ford Mustang Dark Horse that I won in the Forza Horizon 5 Modern Horizons Wet Season playlist and with two versions of the all-new Mustang present, it's time for me to get to know about the dark side of the Mustang.

Following the arrival of the all-new, seventh-generation Ford Mustang, a more potent version called the Dark Horse was unveiled. 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.

The Dark Horse is truly the dark side of the Ford Mustang. The normal V8-powered Mustang is already a great car, but the Dark Horse takes it to a whole new level. Its track-focused dynamics, including a Gen-3 MagneRide Damping System and Brembo brake system, make it an absolute beast on the track. I’ve tested both models and the Dark Horse has the superior handling of the two. If you’re looking for a Mustang that can handle the world’s most demanding tracks, the Dark Horse is the car for you.

To prove my point, I've summoned the normal V8-powered Mustang GT for a one-lap time attack outside the stadium amid foggy conditions. Let's find out if the Dark Horse really is the Dark Horse. Roll the tape.

And now, the results...

Ford Mustang '24 - 1m15.759s

Mustang Dark Horse - 1m14.575s

Just like that, the Dark Side prevailed.

The Mustang Dark Horse is the dark side of the all-new, seventh-generation Ford Mustang. With its motorsport know-how from its racing equivalents, this track-focused road car boldly shows its dark side on the asphalt.

Welcome to the Dark Side.

The Mustang Dark Horse proved its point but I still have a lot of experiments with it so...um...watch this space.

My FH5 Log: The real Horizon Race-Off

With the seventh-generation Mustang and the Ford F-150 Raptor R already in every Forza Horizon 5 player's garage, the time has come for the real Horizon Race-Off to begin.

Throughout the Horizon Race-Off series update on FH5, players worldwide raced through different road and dirt tracks to gain access to these modern-day Blue Oval heroes. The pro-asphalt aimed for the all-new Mustang while the pro-offroad worked hard to get the F-150 Raptor R. As the goals were met, they've got the chance to try them both but the real question is, which one is the best?

Being an idiot savant myself, I've sent the Mustang and the F-150 on a best-of-three match to determine the winner. The first match will be...

The Airport Cross Country Circuit. This abandoned airfield is the Raptor's advantage because being Built Ford Tough, it will be smooth sailing for it. Let's roll the tape.

F-150 Raptor R - 1m08.585s

Ford Mustang '24 - 1m11.672s

So, the F-150 Raptor R wins Game 1 but there's still time for the Mustang to shine because Game 2 will be this.

The Lookout Circuit located outside the Horizon Rush site. This bone-shaped asphalt course will showcase the all-new Mustang's improved dynamics. Let's roll the tape.

F-150 Raptor R - 1m12.439s

Ford Mustang '24 - 1m05.566

The Mustang wins Game 2, making this match a stalemate. With both Blue Ovals won, it's time for the winner-take-all finale to determine which Ford is the best. Although it's hard to determine which venue will be, there's only one choice...

Race to the Horizon Mexico Festival site. Whichever the fastest Ford to arrive at the main festival gate is the winner. Think of it like the final duel on the game show Physical 100 but this is Forza Horizon 5. No rope-pulling, no pole-dropping, no limits. It's just two modern-day Fords the community worked hard to obtain throughout the Horizon Race-Off series update. Let the battle commence.

GO!

F-150 Raptor R - 3m11.408s

Ford Mustang '24 - 2m57.528s

The all-new 2024 Ford Mustang is the winner!

The Horizon Race-Off is finished, but having proved that cars like the Mustang and the F-150 are extremely debatable, rivalries will go on. Win or lose, they're all in this together.

Being pro-asphalt or pro-offroad, it makes no difference because in a game like Forza Horizon 5, ANYTHING GOES. That is the bottom line.