The Enduring Legacy of the Ford 302 Crate Engine

Photo Source: Ford Performance Parts 

In production with several versions for over 30 years, Ford’s 302 small-block Windsor V-8 is considered one of the finest engines the brand ever built. Renowned for its dependability, the 302 Ford was housed in nearly every automobile in the Ford lineup – pickup trucks, cars, vans; over 30 vehicles were propelled by the 302 small-block Ford throughout its production life. To this day (2024), Ford Performance sells crate variants of the 302 V-8. 

After a demanding racing season in 1968, the Blue Oval opted to maintain production-based engines in all its racing vehicles. Rather than manufacturing a completely new powertrain, Ford experts gave birth to the 302. It represented a turning point in Ford’s ability to recover the upper hand on the racetracks. 

This lightweight and small engine not only revamped weight distribution and increased performance but also bolstered handling, allowing Ford to reclaim its competitive dominance. Unsurprisingly, countless enthusiasts quickly embraced the 302 power plant for use on drag strips, road courses, and street use.

How Much Horsepower Can You Get Out of a 302 Ford Engine?

Photo Source: Ford

From 2011-2015, the 302 mill resided in the Boss 302 Mustang. However, not everyone could afford the memorable, factory-built race car at the time. Ford Racing adopted an ingenious approach by providing the Boss 302 5.0-liter crate engine as a standalone product for buyers who sought to leverage its outstanding performance numbers in their project car. It’s been a resounding success ever since.

Although its production run was short-lived, individuals flocked to purchase the $11,999 Boss 302 crate engine. The engine’s power, prestigious legacy, and robustness were undoubtedly linked to its popularity. Nonetheless, what made the Boss 302 crate engine an exceptional commodity was its unparalleled output. The standalone crate power plant produced a staggering 444 horsepower, eclipsing the 2011 Mustang GT Coyote engine by an additional 32 horsepower.

Ford Boss 302 Crate Engine Assembly

Like the regular 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 power plant, the Ford Boss 302 crate engine shares a platform with the 5.0 Coyote engine block. That said, there are considerable differences between the two, including:

• the crate motor’s use of computer-controlled ported heads manufactured from 356 aluminum, resulting in enhanced durability and airflow
• forged aluminum pistons
• a forged steel crankshaft
• a higher lift exhaust camshaft profile
• upgraded connecting rods for increased sturdiness

The Boss 302 crate engine is also characterized by a high-flow intake manifold obtained from the 302R race car to generate a higher volume of air in the combustion chamber. Moreover, the brand’s engineers eliminated all piston-cooling jets, a staple of the stock 5.0 Coyote mill.

The Blue Oval Instills Confidence at NYE Ford!

Reviewers typically convey contentment with the Ford Mustang Boss 302.

“I think this car will last hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.”

–Edmunds

Indeed, stock 302 engines can last well over 100,000 miles, with some even surpassing 500,000 miles with proper maintenance. Readers must note the significance of oil changes, quality tires, and general maintenance, all of which come with limited-time offers at our dealership.