This is my 2024 Mustang Dark Horse. It is built to perform across street, track, and autocross, not just look good parked.
I use this car as a real world test platform. Every part on it has a purpose. If it does not improve performance or driving confidence, it does not stay.
This build is always evolving as I test new setups, parts, and configurations.
How I approach this build
I am not chasing peak horsepower or trends.
The focus is simple
- Grip
- Braking
- Balance
- Driver confidence
Everything is tested in real conditions. Track days, autocross, and street driving. The goal is to understand what actually works on the S650 platform and share that.
Follow the owner, Chris Cervenka, on social media!
Latest Video
Build Breakdown
Powertrain
- AWE S-Flo Dry Carbon Cold Air Intake System
- AWE SwitchPath 3-inch Cat-Back Exhaust
- LIQUI MOLY Oils & Additives
What this does
- Car makes 450 whp / 391 wtq
- Improves airflow and response
- Keeps the car reliable
- Gives it a much better tone without being over the top
Braking
- Baer EradiSpeed+ Slotted Rotors (Front / Rear)
- Carbotech XP20 Front / XP12 Rear Track Pads
- Carbotech 1521 Street Pads
- Castrol SRF Brake Fluid
Why this setup
- Strong, consistent stopping power on track
- Predictable pedal feel
- Easy swap to a street pad that is quieter and lower dust
Suspension and Chassis
Right now the car is back on stock suspension.
That is intentional.
I wanted to reset to a baseline so I can properly evaluate future changes and understand what each modification is actually doing.
Wheels and Tires
Street Setup
- Velgen Forged Monobloc VFMBX5
20x10.5 Front / 20x11.5 Rear with custom offset - Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02
305/30ZR20 Front / 315/35ZR20 Rear
Track Setup
- Factory Dark Horse Handling Pack Wheels (19x10.5 F / 19x11 R)
- Hoosier TrackAttack Pro
305/30 Front / 315/30 Rear
Aero and Exterior
Everything here is either functional or ties into the overall look of the car.
- FFP Dark Horse Handling Package Carbon Fiber Front Chin Spoiler
- FFP Dark Horse Carbon Fiber Outer Bumper Trim
- FFP Dark Horse Carbon Fiber Lower Grille Trim
- FFP Carbon Fiber Dark Horse Handling Package Spoiler Gurney Flap
- FFP S650 Dark Horse Style Rear Bumper Diffuser
- AJ Hartman Aero Front Canards
- StangLights S650 Carbon Series Headlights
- FORM Lighting Smoked Euro Taillights
- FORM Lighting Smoked Front and Rear Reflectors
- ZL1 Add-Ons Red Tow Hook
- RTR Hood Vent
Goal here
- Added front end stability at speed
- Better airflow
- Clean, OEM+ but aggressive look
Interior and Electronics
Simple but useful. Helps with both track footage and daily driving.
Videos
Photos
If You Are Building a Dark Horse
If you are researching
- Mustang Dark Horse mods
- S650 performance upgrades
- Track setups
- Wheel and tire fitment
- Brake setups
This page is meant to give you a real world starting point based on what I have tested.
I am constantly testing new parts and setups.
If you want to see what actually works on these cars, follow along!
Follow Chris on social media!
By: Chris Cervenka | Posted: April 5, 2026