Although the Ford Mustang was finally updated from its circa-1979 Fox platform in 2005, America’s favorite muscle car remained quite dated in the powertrain department. Many thought the 2010 refresh would address this problem, but the new Mustang still receives its motivation from either a 4.6L V8 or 4.0L V6.
A new 5.0L ‘Coyote’ V8 is said to be in the works for the 2011 Mustang GT, but that still leaves the question of the Mustang’s base engine. The current car’s 4.0L V6 is essentially a truck engine and dates back to the 1970s. Although that mill was sufficient when the Camaro used an equally asthmatic 3.8L V6, the new Camaro comes packing a 304 horsepower V6 capable of 29 mpg.
In order to bring the Mustang up to spec with the competition, Ford is readying a 3.7L V6 for the 2011 Mustang, according to The Mustang News. Essentially a rear-drive version of the engine used in Lincoln products, the 3.7 will generate at least 273 horsepower – a significant jump over the current car’s 210 horsepower. Moreover, it remains possible Ford could add direct-injection for the Mustang application, likely giving the six-pot over 300 horsepower.
While Ford has yet to confirm the new Mustang mill, it reportedly showed off the 3.7L to employees last week. If the rumors prove to be true, expect the pony car wars to heat up even more in the coming years.
