Though strange looking, the...
Though strange looking, the new twin-T-style tubular headers are very efficient.
When asked about the most important aspect of the engine, 5.0L Engine Chief Engineer Mike Harrison replied, "volumetric efficiency." From 3,750 rpm to 6,500 rpm, it is over 100 percent efficient. At peak torque it's 110 percent efficient, while even the greatest [naturally aspirated] racing engines peak at 120 percent, and most other engines max out at less than 100 percent. The pumping efficiency of this powerplant puts it on the cutting edge of technology.
To meet the performance and economic needs of the new engine, new automatic and manual transmissions will be standard on the 2011 Mustang GT. The 6R80 six-speed automatic has a wider ratio span, can handle a higher torque output, and allows for 3-5 percent better fuel economy over the 5R55. The MT82 manual transmission features low shift effort, a new fully synthetic oil, and is more durable and efficient than the current TH3650.
The new 5.0L utilizes a forged-steel...
The new 5.0L utilizes a forged-steel crankshaft.
Another important feature is EPAS (electronic power-assist steering). Gone are the power steering pump, hoses, and fluid. An electric booster is built into the steering rack and is controlled by the PCM. Steering feel will be improved greatly, without compromising steering assist or adding parasitic loss.
The last, and probably most simple, standard feature on the '11 is the new "5.0" badge. Found on the engine cover and fenders, it takes a new spin on the original. The red decimal looks almost identical, only slightly larger, and the font of the numbers is reminiscent, yet modern. It's big enough for the larger S197, but not gaudy.
The oiling system has received...
The oiling system has received some serious attention as well. The team designed a special windage tray that doubles as the oil pan gasket...
Brembo brakes will now be available for the GT, along with other options like the Track Pack and larger wheels.
Gone is the Three-Valve modular; in its place we have an attractive and balanced specimen that far exceeds our expectations. Overall weight is within a few pounds of the Three-Valve, thanks to a smaller and lighter valvetrain, but power output has been increased by roughly 100 hp. We smell 12-second quarter-mile e.t.s right out of the box.
Once again, Ford Motor Company nailed the exercise, and now all that's left for us is to drive one.
...the new oil pan holds 8...
...the new oil pan holds 8 quarts of Motorcraft 5w20 conventional oil...
...and oil squirters were...
...and oil squirters were added to the underside of the pistons for quicker warm-up and detonation prevention.
Under the hood, the 5.0L looks...
Under the hood, the 5.0L looks right at home. The cold-air intake (similar to the 2010) sweeps directly to the front of the intake, which peeks through the partial engine cover.
The unmistakably familiar...
The unmistakably familiar "5.0" badge borrows the red, square-shaped decimal from its predecessor, and utilizes a new but similar font for the digits.