The 2011 Mustang ushers in the return of the 5.0 litre badge
for Ford's most iconic model. The previous 4.6 litre engine,
while technically superior, never attained quite the same cult
status as the 5.0 V8 used in the Fox body Mustangs. However
the cylinder volume is about the only thing the old 5.0 V8 and
new 5.0 V8 share.
The modern 5.0-liter four-valve Twin Independent Variable Camshaft
Timing (Ti-VCT) V-8 engine in the 2011 Mustang GT produces 412
horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel
economy is superior to the previous model
"This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in
the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio,"
said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.
"It's a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering
the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want,
while improving fuel economy."
A critical element in the 5.0-liter V-8's ability to deliver
412 horsepower, with improved drivability, tractability and
fuel economy over the 2010 Mustang GT powertrain, is the enhanced
Ti-VCT.
For a high-performance application, the team specified cam-torque-actuated
variable camshaft timing. Using existing cam torque energy,
with assistance from pressurized oil, meant that minimal upgrades
to the oil pump were required, resulting in less parasitic drag.
Increased volumetric and thermal efficiency gives faster Ti-VCT
response at all engine speeds.
During the development phase, camshaft lift profile and port
optimization started with higher-lift Ford Racing aftermarket
units, modified for compatibility with various four-valve-per-cylinder
heads. Extensive CAE and dynamometer testing was performed to
fine-tune camshaft events and port flow for performance and
fuel efficiency in conjunction with the variable camshaft timing.
The resulting all-new aluminum four-valve-per-cylinder heads
feature a compact roller finger follower valvetrain layout leaving
more room for high-flow ports for free-breathing performance.
Head structure was designed to support higher cylinder head
pressures and cross-flow cooling for sustained high-rpm use.
An additional element is the increased capacity and baffling
of the deep-sump stamped steel oil pan to enable sustained high-rpm
use and offer the convenience of 10,000-mile oil change intervals.
Piston-cooling jets also were incorporated for performance-minded
customers and for faster oil warm-up on cold start.
The six-speed automatic transmission on the 2011 Mustang GT
will deliver up to an estimated 25 mpg highway and 17 in the
city. This is up from 23 mpg highway and 17 city for the 2010
model. Six-speed manual transmission Mustang GT models for 2011
are projected to deliver 24 mpg highway and 16 city, matching
the 2010 model but delivering significantly more horsepower
and performance
While the new engine is by far the most significant change for
the 2011 Mustang, there are other upgrades to the car which
help raise the performance potential.
The 2011 Mustang GT features an enhanced rear lower control
arm to add stiffness, improve powertrain NVH control and sharpen
handling. A stiffened rear stabilizer bar for better on-center
steering is also included. Stabilizer bar diameters, spring
rates and dampers all have been tuned for improved dynamics.
A Brembo brake package upgrade will be available for serious
enthusiasts. This package includes 14-inch vented front discs
from the GT500 Mustang, unique 19-inch alloy wheels and summer
performance tires.
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