Hyundai Ioniq 5N vs. Mustang Dark Horse: EV Sports Car Showdown

In this thrilling showdown, the Donut team pits the futuristic Hyundai Ioniq 5N against the classic powerhouse, the Mustang Dark Horse. The Ioniq, with its simulated engine noises and gears, tries to convince us it's a true sports car, while the Dark Horse boasts a real six-speed manual transmission, no tricks needed. As they delve into the realm of enthusiast sports cars, these two contenders, despite their similarities in horsepower and price, couldn't be more different in approach.

The Ioniq impresses with its luxurious interior, complete with leather and simulated transmission sounds, attempting to bridge the gap between EVs and traditional gas-powered vehicles. With a hefty weight but substantial 601 horsepower under the hood, it aims to offer a unique driving experience. On the other hand, the Dark Horse, with its 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque, embodies the raw, unfiltered essence of a true sports car, delivering a visceral driving sensation that enthusiasts crave.

As the drag race unfolds, the Ioniq reveals its power boost feature, providing a temporary edge but ultimately succumbing to the Dark Horse's traditional engine prowess. While the Ioniq showcases its drifting capabilities, it falls short in a hot lap due to overheating issues, highlighting the challenges faced by EVs in high-performance scenarios. Despite its impressive features and design, the Ioniq's EV nature slightly taints its overall appeal, leaving enthusiasts yearning for the authenticity and thrill that the Dark Horse effortlessly delivers.