5.0L....302 what's the difference

[Realmongo]

Ford began applying the 5.0 label on the FOX body cars. As the 5.0 evolved with time (1-piece rear main seal appliance with 50-oz. balancer and flywheel, roller cam with spider and mounting bosses, transition to electric fuel pumps required by fuel injection, loss of the mechanical clutch linkage, etc.) enthusiasts picked up on Ford's lead and referred to the earlier engines as the 302s and the later engines as 5.0s.

 

[jozsefsz]

Ford began applying the 5.0 label on the FOX body cars..

The King Cobra (II) was actually the first to wear the badge. Of course it wasn't quite as common as the 5.0L Fox. The big push to adopt the metric system (along with its fasteners) also began around the same time. Realizing this is a very old thread, it's still a fun topic.

 

[Realmongo]

Oh right, the 139 Horsepower powerhouse from 1978 with the 5.0 decal on the hood scoop.

 

[jozsefsz]

Oh right, the 139 Horsepower powerhouse from 1978 with the 5.0 decal on the hood scoop.

Et tu Realmongo? In '78 it was only 134, and it didn't make 139 until 1979 which added a few pounds too. It wasn't making above 150 until 1982, and took until 1987 to make its final 225, which is still pretty pathetic by today's standards. The 5.0 Mustang was never intended to stay stock, even in '78.

 

[Realmongo]

I remember test driving one back when they new. Decided to buy my Uncle's used 1972 Grande with a 351C and 4-speed instead.