Edmunds pits Ford's Mustang Dark Horse against Cadillac's CT4-V Blackwing in a performance duel—here’s who came out on top.
Ford’s Mustang Dark Horse has emerged victorious over the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing in a recent head-to-head performance test conducted by Edmunds. Despite occupying different segments—muscle coupe versus luxury sport sedan—the two high-powered American machines squared off in a “U-Drag” test designed to evaluate acceleration, handling, and overall agility.
On paper, the Mustang has a clear horsepower advantage. Its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 produces 500 hp, outgunning the CT4-V Blackwing’s twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 by 28 hp. However, the Cadillac boasts more torque, rated at 445 lb-ft compared to the Mustang’s 418.
Both cars were equipped with their respective 10-speed automatic transmissions for the test, and their curb weights were similar. Still, the Cadillac held a slight edge in weight-to-power ratio, at 8.25 pounds per horsepower versus the Mustang’s 8.03. Even so, that wasn’t enough to make up for the tire difference—Ford equipped its car with ultra-sticky Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires, while the Cadillac ran on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber.
That advantage played out decisively. In acceleration, the Mustang hit 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, beating the Cadillac by two-tenths. It also posted a quicker quarter-mile time (12.5 seconds vs. 12.8) and reached a higher terminal speed (117.2 mph vs. 113.3 mph).
The Mustang further demonstrated superior grip through the course’s 180-degree turn, pulling 1.30 g versus the Cadillac’s 1.26 g. It also achieved a higher return speed—125.0 mph to 121.0—and a final course time of 34.9 seconds, eight-tenths quicker than the Blackwing.
While the CT4-V Blackwing offers more comfort and refinement, the Mustang Dark Horse proved itself the sharper performance tool. With similar price tags starting in the mid-$60,000s, this test may sway performance-focused buyers toward Ford’s final evolution of the sixth-gen Mustang.
