When you start a fourth-generation Ford Mustang GT, the engine that roars to life depends on the model year. From 1994 to 1996, the Mustang GT was powered by a classic 5.0-liter pushrod V8, a legendary engine worthy of its own in-depth exploration. But in 1996, Ford introduced a new powerhouse: the Modular V8. This 4.6-liter engine wasn’t just a departure from the old Windsor V8—it was part of a groundbreaking engine family that left a lasting legacy, one that continues to influence Ford’s engineering today.
The Modular V8 wasn’t just another engine; it was a standout. Over the years, it earned more Wards 10 Best Engines awards than any other V8, winning a total of 12 times across its 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter variants. While engines like Chevrolet’s small block and Chrysler’s Hemi often steal the spotlight, Ford’s Modular V8 quietly proved itself as a reliable, innovative workhorse. It powered a wide range of vehicles, from Ford and Mercury models to luxury Lincolns, and even found its way into other applications.
In this feature, we pay tribute to the Modular V8—a family of engines that combined affordability, durability, and performance, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
