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Ford Racing is set to unveil a remarkable tribute to its heritage by showcasing a vintage racing narrative on two of its contemporary race cars. This initiative celebrates a pivotal moment from over a century ago, intertwining the past with the present in a vibrant display of automotive history.

Ford's Mustang GT3s Celebrate 1901 'Sweepstakes' Victory

On October 3, ahead of the prestigious Petit Le Mans, Ford's factory Mustang GT3 team will feature a distinctive livery inspired by the legendary 'Sweepstakes' two-seater racer. This historic vehicle, piloted to victory by Henry Ford in 1901, achieved an impressive 60 miles per hour, a remarkable speed for its era. This triumph was a cornerstone in securing the necessary investments that led to the incorporation of the Ford Motor Company in June 1903. The No. 64 and No. 65 Mustang GT3s will carry this special design at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, commemorating the race that significantly influenced Henry Ford's entrepreneurial journey.

The design team meticulously recreated the original color palette of the 'Sweepstakes' for these modern machines. The new livery presents a striking contrast to the Mustang GT3's typical blue and white racing scheme. Burgundy and gold graphics are set against a sleek black backdrop, featuring the initial Ford Motor Company emblem in gold. Furthermore, the hood proudly displays "Racing Since 1901" lettering, alongside graphics that acknowledge Ford's 1903 establishment. These thoughtful details forge a direct link between the current Mustang GT3 and the earliest days of the company, transcending a mere celebration of Ford's long-standing involvement in motorsports. Even the drivers' firesuits are designed to mirror the three-piece attire reportedly worn by Henry Ford during the 1901 'Sweepstakes' race.

Adding another layer of homage, Ford's Mustang GT3 already boasts its signature 'Glow Pony' – an illuminated outline of the Mustang logo on the rear fender. For Petit Le Mans, this concept is elevated further, with the entire pony emblem illuminated for the first time on a factory Mustang GT3. Within this radiant emblem, a black-and-gold American flag is integrated, connecting the race car's historical narrative to another significant milestone: the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The two tribute Mustangs will participate in the GTD Pro class during the 10-hour Motul Petit Le Mans season finale at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Dennis Olsen and Ben Barker will share the No. 64 Mustang, while Christopher Mies and Frédéric Vervisch will take the wheel of the No. 65. Ford's commitment to its factory Mustang GT3 program extends into the 2027 season, with the same GTD Pro lineup confirmed. For the company, these vehicles symbolize more than just an endurance race; the latest livery of the Mustang GT3 serves as a powerful reminder that Ford's illustrious racing legacy began with a groundbreaking 60-mph machine named 'Sweepstakes' over a century ago.

This initiative brilliantly illustrates how a company can honor its deep roots while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of modern engineering and competition. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and the profound impact of historical achievements on future endeavors. By linking the past with the present, Ford not only celebrates its rich heritage but also inspires a renewed appreciation for the journey of automotive development and racing excellence.

Ford has unveiled its latest high-performance vehicle, the 2027 Mustang Dark Horse SC, a supercharged edition that redefines the capabilities of the Mustang lineage. This new model positions itself above the standard Dark Horse, offering a level of power and agility comparable to, or even exceeding, the acclaimed previous-generation Shelby GT500. Automotive enthusiasts can anticipate a thrilling driving experience, backed by significant engineering enhancements.

At the heart of the Dark Horse SC lies a formidable supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 engine. This powerhouse is engineered to deliver an impressive 795 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque, marking a substantial leap in performance. To put this into perspective, these figures represent an increase of 35 horsepower and 35 pound-feet of torque compared to the last Shelby GT500, underscoring Ford's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a Mustang can achieve. Such raw power ensures exhilarating acceleration and a commanding presence on both road and track.

Complementing its robust engine, the Dark Horse SC is equipped with a sophisticated Tremec seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This advanced gearbox is designed to handle the immense power output with precision, providing rapid and seamless gear changes that contribute to the vehicle's dynamic performance. Furthermore, the inclusion of magnetorheological dampers as standard equipment highlights the car's focus on superior handling and ride comfort. These adaptive dampers can instantly adjust their stiffness, optimizing the suspension for various driving conditions and ensuring exceptional stability and control.

For those seeking to extract even more performance from this already potent machine, an optional Track Pack is available. This package further refines the vehicle's capabilities, featuring stiffer suspension components, wider wheels, and high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires on all four corners. These upgrades collectively enhance grip, stability, and responsiveness, transforming the Dark Horse SC into an even more formidable track weapon. The combination of cutting-edge technology and enthusiast-focused options ensures that the 2027 Mustang Dark Horse SC caters to drivers who demand the ultimate in performance and driving engagement.

The 2027 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC signifies a new era of high-performance Mustangs, blending raw power with advanced technological features to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. With its supercharged V-8 engine, state-of-the-art transmission, and sophisticated chassis enhancements, this model stands as a testament to Ford's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence, promising an exhilarating future for the iconic Mustang brand.