12 high-performance cars with a better power-to-weight ratio than the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse

The level of performance we see in cars today is breathtaking. As car manufacturers strive to increase power and reduce weight for faster sprints, there have never been so many powerful cars to choose from. More power is often preferred over weight reduction, which gives the brands more vanity. However, more power is not always the deciding factor.

For example, Muscle Cars boast high horsepower, but some are heavy. The 500-horsepower Ford Mustang Dark Horse may be the ultimate Mustang, but its nearly 1.8-ton body produces 279 horsepower per ton, keeping it behind the competition.

There are plenty of cars that outperform the Dark Horse and prove it’s not just about the horsepower. This list includes twelve street-legal cars with a better power-to-weight ratio than the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse that are available now. Electric cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and hypercars are excluded because they’re in different leagues.

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12 2024 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe: 285 hp/ton

BMW Alpina B8 2024 Technical Data

(Source: BMW)

Alpina takes BMW’s already impressive vehicles and turns them up to eleven. The latest B8 Gran Coupé is a prime example of this philosophy, offering an exclusive version of the 8 Series. In addition to hand-built engines and fine leather interiors, Alpina adds a few more subtle changes. The 621 hp Alpina B8, which looks like a regular luxury sedan to the untrained eye, could be one of the rarest sleeper limousines of the last decade .

11 BMW M5 2024: 289 hp/ton

BMW M5 2024 Technical Data

(Source: BMW)

Not surprisingly, the M5 has long been the benchmark for high-performance sedans, and the 2024 model raises the bar. Using hybrid technology to improve its already powerful engine gives this M car stats that surpass supercars; it could the end for muscle cars .

Its advanced all-wheel drive system ensures all the power is used optimally when needed, but BMW hasn’t sacrificed driving fun for speed. For even more thrills, drivers can still switch to rear-wheel drive at the touch of a button.

10 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio RWD: 291 hp/ton

Technical data of the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio 2024

(Source: Alfa Romeo)

The seductive Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio looks as good on the road as it does on the spec sheet. This rear-wheel drive sports sedan features a Twin-turbo V6 engine directly from Ferrari with a feather-light construction that contributes to an impressive power-to-weight ratio.

9 2024 Maserati Ghibli 334 Ultima: 291 hp/ton

2024 Maserati Ghibli 334 Ultima Technical Specifications

(Source: Maserati)

With more flair than the Giulia, this special edition of the Maserati Ghibli 334 Ultima is the fastest sedan in the world. It features a powerful Ferrari V8 engine in a luxury sedan with a freely selectable top speed of 334 km/h (207 mph).

Like the Maserati Ghibli Trofeo, the Ultima’s lightweight construction achieves a power-to-weight ratio that even puts the mighty Mustang Dark Horse in the shade.

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8 2024 BMW M4 CS: 299 hp/ton

BMW M4 CS 2024 Technical Data

(Source: BMW)

BMW’s M division knows how to build track-focused machines, and the M4 CS is a deserving entry on that list. The CS’s sole goal was to be lighter than the outgoing M4, and a strict diet of carbon fiber parts has done wonders for the M4 CS’s power-to-weight ratio. Plus, the exposed carbon fiber roof and seats look incredible.

7 Nissan GT-R 2024: 316 hp/ton

Nissan GT-R 2024 – Technical data

(Source: Nissan)

Next we have a brutally fast Japanese sports car that JDM fans will love. The Nissan GT-R almost reaches supercar territory with its blistering speed and precise handling. In fact, its ruthless performance is so notorious that the GT-R has been nicknamed Godzilla – it destroys everything in its path.

An advanced all-wheel drive system works in perfect harmony with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine to deliver breathtaking performance. The GT-R’s sophisticated launch control features use a variety of sensors to ensure quick starts.

6 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray: 321 hp/ton

2024 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray Specifications

(Source: Chevrolet)

Since we are comparing with an American muscle car, it is only fair that we include some of them in our list. The C8 Chevrolet Corvette, HotCars’ Best Sports Car of 2024 The engine was moved behind the driver, making it a mid-engine coupe. This change paid off in terms of performance, improving handling and weight distribution. Plus, the mighty 6.2-liter V8 offers tremendous power.

5 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS: 336 hp/ton

2024 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Specifications

(Source: Porsche)

While some cars here claim to be superior to high-performance cars, Jay Leno says the 718 Cayman GT4 RS is better than million-dollar supercars . This lightweight sports car is a track-focused machine with a mid-mounted, naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine. Its incredible power-to-weight ratio is impressive, almost beating the Porsche 911 at its own game.

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4 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Power: 348 hp/ton

Performance data of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE (2024)

(Source: Mercedes-Benz)

From one German wonder to the next, the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupé is a two-door hybrid rocket that terrorizes supercars on the racetrack with its thundering V8 and precise handling. At the same time, its luxurious cabin offers superior comfort and everyday usability.

3 2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing: 357 hp/ton

2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Specifications

(Source: Cadillac)

Next we have the fastest sleeping car in the world ; the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. This fast sedan is one of the last still offered with a manual transmission. With a powerful 6.2-liter supercharged V8 under its sleek exterior, the CT5-V is a perfect all-rounder. For those who don’t want subtlety, there’s an optional Precision Package.

2 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: 364 hp/ton

2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Specifications

(Source: Chevrolet)

With this engine, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is another high-performance sedan from General Motors. Although the ZL1 has the same engine, it has less horsepower and less torque. It also lacks the option of a manual transmission. Nevertheless, its impressive power-to-weight ratio puts it ahead of the Cadillac, making it a great alternative to the expensive 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse .

1 Aston Martin Vantage 2024: 408 hp/ton

Aston Martin Vantage 2024 – Technical data

(Source: Aston Martin)

Rounding out our list is the new Aston Martin Vantage, where British luxury meets German engineering. This stunning Sports car with great Mercedes power borrows a twin-turbo V8 from the AMG department and combines it with British charm.

With the perfect balance between agility for high-speed excursions and excitement for picking up accomplices, Aston Martin has proven its capabilities on the big screen as James Bond Weapon of choice.

Sources: Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Porsche