What Makes the Clive Sutton CS800DH Mustang Stand Out in the UK?
If you’ve spent any time around performance cars in the UK, the name Clive Sutton probably rings a bell. This isn’t just another tuning house slapping on a body kit and calling it a day. Sutton has built a reputation for taking already-impressive machines and dialing them up to eleven, especially when it comes to American muscle. Their latest project, the CS800DH Mustang, is a perfect example—melding brute force with a level of craftsmanship that’s rare on this side of the Atlantic.
How Does the CS800DH Transform the Standard Mustang?
Let’s get straight to the numbers: the CS800DH starts life as a Ford Mustang Dark Horse, already a potent beast with a 5.0-liter V8. But Sutton doesn’t do “stock.” They bolt on a 3.0-liter Whipple supercharger, pushing output from the UK-spec 447 hp to a jaw-dropping 788 hp at 6,700 rpm and 642 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. That’s not just a bump—it’s a full-on leap into supercar territory. For context, that’s more power than a Ferrari F8 Tributo or a McLaren Artura, both of which cost considerably more.
But it’s not just about straight-line speed. Sutton adds a Borla exhaust with a custom H-pipe for a richer soundtrack, lowers the suspension for a more planted stance, and fits bespoke Vossen wheels. The result? A car that looks as aggressive as it sounds, and handles like it means business.
What Visual and Aerodynamic Upgrades Set It Apart?
Performance is only half the story. The CS800DH borrows visual cues from the track-focused Mustang GTD, with exposed carbon fiber everywhere you look. The hood features two massive vents to keep that supercharged V8 cool, while the front fenders get their own carbon fiber air extractors. Around back, a custom diffuser and a substantial fixed rear wing (also carbon) complete the look.
These aren’t just for show. Carbon fiber reduces weight and helps channel airflow, improving both cooling and downforce. It’s the kind of attention to detail you’d expect from a boutique builder, not a mass-market muscle car.
Is the Interior as Special as the Exterior?
Let’s be honest: the standard Mustang’s interior, while functional, doesn’t exactly scream luxury. Sutton changes that equation by reupholstering the headliner, seats, dash, and door panels in bright blue Alcantara. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying it feels special—soft-touch materials everywhere, and a sense of occasion every time you slide behind the wheel. It’s a bold move, and while the color might not be for everyone, the craftsmanship is undeniable.
How Does the Price Stack Up Against the Competition?
Here’s where things get interesting. The CS800DH is set to debut at Salon Privé, one of the UK’s most prestigious automotive events. Pricing starts at £135,000 and can climb to £165,000 depending on options—that’s roughly $178,000 to $216,000. At that level, you’re not just shopping against other Mustangs. You’re in the same ballpark as lightly used McLarens or a Porsche 911 GT3, both of which offer their own brand of pedigree and performance.
So, is it worth it? That depends on what you value. The CS800DH offers exclusivity, outrageous power, and a level of customization you simply won’t find from the factory. For some, that’s more appealing than the surgical precision of a German sports car or the exotic flair of an Italian supercar.
What’s the Real-World Appeal of a 788-HP Mustang in the UK?
It’s easy to get lost in the numbers, but the CS800DH’s appeal goes beyond the spec sheet. In a country where American muscle is a rare sight, this Mustang is a rolling statement—loud, unapologetic, and utterly unique. It’s for the driver who wants to stand out at Cars & Coffee, turn heads on the high street, and maybe embarrass a few supercars at the next track day.
That said, it’s not for everyone. The price is steep, and the running costs (think fuel, tires, and insurance) won’t be gentle. But for the right buyer, it’s a chance to own something truly special—a modern muscle car reimagined for a discerning audience.
The big takeaway? The CS800DH isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.