Hoonigan on its YouTube channel has been holding a bunch of crazy races lately, like having their souped-up delivery van go up against a converted off-road BMW or burning rubber with their Buick Grand National against a Hyundai SUV. The latest matchup in the Hoonigan "Hoonicorn vs. the World" series has their modified 1965 Ford Mustang challenging the infamous Menzies Red Bull trophy truck, a perennial Baja 500 winner but a total neophyte on the drag circuit. How did it go? Let's find out.
A Fully Modified Ford Mustang Dubbed "Hoonicorn"
The Hoonigan lads, with driver Ken Block, might be a bit cocky when it comes to taking on contenders but for this race, there's a great deal of merit in their all-wheel-drive Mustang dubbed the Hoonicorn. Their hopes ride on a 6.7-liter, methanol-fueled V8 delivering a monstrous load of 1,400 horsepower and a six-speed transmission.
This 'Stang's been modified from hood to trunk with a tubular chassis and heavily-reinforced roll cage with custom wheels and tires courtesy of Pirelli. The exterior's outfitted with a carbon fiber shell with extended side fenders for better stability when the pedal hits the metal.
That's One Raging Red Bull
Putting his reputation on the line is driver Bryce Menzies who's been a regular terrain terror in his trophy truck, a custom build tailored to the off-road circuit. Besides winning the Baja 500 three times, he's also won the Mint 400, the Toyo Tires Desert Invitational, and the Corr Single Buggy Championship.
He does it all in his all-wheel-drive Red Bull, which is powered by a 555 cubic-inch Chevy drag V8 engine that delivers 950 horsepower and tilts the speedometer at 145 mph. Besides boasting a six-speed paddle transmission, a full roll cage, and 40-inch wheels with custom Toyo tires, it also has super-reinforced brakes and shocks.
Three Rounds Of Drag Racing
The vehicles competed in three rounds of dragging. First was a quarter-mile, second was the same distance with reduced weight, and the final was a 500-foot sprint. While the Hoonigan was consistent for its part, the Menzies popped a wheelie in its first run and took the lead right at the start during the remaining rounds.
Each time, the Hoonicorn won, regardless of weight or distance. But at least while doing donuts, the Red Bull was true to its name by kicking up a lot of dust.