Introduced in 1958, the Ford FE V8 engine quickly became a powerhouse in American cars, fitting into everything from family sedans to race-ready muscle cars. With sizes ranging from 332 to 428 cubic inches, the FE engine wasn’t just versatile—it was a force, helping Ford conquer both streets and racetracks, including a historic win at Le Mans.
Here are 14 classic cars and trucks that harnessed the power of the FE, showcasing its legacy across two decades of American automotive history.
1. 1958 Ford Fairlane 500
The 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 was one of the first cars to feature the new FE V8 engine. This full-size sedan combined luxury with power, offering Americans a taste of the future.
The Fairlane 500 set the stage for Ford’s dominance in the coming decade.
Best features:
- 332 cubic inch FE V8 engine with up to 265 horsepower
- Sleek, modern styling with quad headlights
- Optional “Interceptor” package for enhanced performance
2. 1959 Edsel Corsair
Despite the Edsel brand’s short-lived run, the 1959 Corsair was a standout model. It boasted the FE V8 as its powerplant, giving this controversial car some serious muscle. The Corsair’s unique styling and potent engine made it a memorable if misunderstood, piece of automotive history.
Best features:
- 361 cubic inch FE V8 producing 303 horsepower
- Distinctive “horse-collar” grille design
- Luxurious interior appointments
3. 1960 Ford Galaxie
The Ford Galaxie brought the FE V8’s power to the masses. This full-size car offered a perfect blend of performance and practicality for American families.
With its spacious interior and powerful engine options, the Galaxie became a staple of Ford’s lineup.
Best features:
- Available 352 cubic inch FE V8 with up to 360 horsepower
- Sleek, jet-age-inspired styling
- Comfortable seating for six passengers
4. 1962 Mercury Monterey
Mercury’s Monterey showcased the FE V8’s versatility in the luxury market. This upscale sedan combines smooth performance with premium features. The Monterey proved that the FE engine could deliver both power and refinement.
Best features:
- 390 cubic inch FE V8 engine option
- Plush interior with high-quality materials
- Advanced suspension for a smooth ride
5. 1963 Ford Thunderbird
The iconic Thunderbird received a significant boost with the introduction of the FE V8. This personal luxury car embodied the spirit of the swinging ’60s.
With its powerful engine and distinctive styling, the Thunderbird became a symbol of American automotive excellence.
Best features:
- 390 cubic inch FE V8 delivering up to 340 horsepower
- Unique “bullet” body design
- Swing-away steering wheel for easy entry and exit
6. 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt
The Fairlane Thunderbolt was a limited-production drag racing special that showcased the FE V8’s potential. This lightweight monster was built for one purpose: dominating the quarter-mile.
The Thunderbolt remains one of the most sought-after Ford performance cars of the era.
Best features:
- 427 cubic inch FE V8 producing over 500 horsepower
- Fiberglass hood, fenders, and bumpers for weight reduction
- Purpose-built for the NHRA Super Stock competition
7. 1965 Ford Mustang GT
The Mustang GT with the FE V8 option transformed the pony car into a true muscle machine. This combination of style and power helped cement the Mustang’s place in automotive history. The GT package turned heads and won hearts on streets across America.
Best features:
- Optional 390 cubic inch FE V8 with 320 horsepower
- GT-specific styling cues and badging
- Upgraded suspension for improved handling
8. 1966 Mercury Comet Cyclone GT
Mercury’s answer to the Mustang, the Comet Cyclone GT, packed a serious punch with its FE V8 engine. This mid-size muscle car offered blistering performance in a sleek package.
The Cyclone GT proved that Mercury could compete in the performance arena.
Best features:
- 390 cubic inch FE V8 with up to 335 horsepower
- Distinctive styling with a fiberglass hood scoop
- Performance-tuned suspension
9. 1967 Ford Ranchero
The Ranchero combined the utility of a pickup with the comfort of a car, all powered by the mighty FE V8. This unique vehicle offered a versatile solution for those who needed both work and play capabilities.
The FE-powered Ranchero became a favorite among enthusiasts and workers alike.
Best features:
- Available 390 cubic inch FE V8 engine
- Car-like ride and handling
- Spacious cargo bed for hauling
10. 1968 Ford Torino GT
The Torino GT represented Ford’s entry into the intermediate muscle car market, with the FE V8 providing the necessary grunt. This stylish performer offered a perfect balance of comfort and speed.
The Torino GT quickly became a favorite among street racers and cruisers.
Best features:
- 390 cubic inch FE V8 with up to 325 horsepower
- Fastback styling for improved aerodynamics
- Optional ram-air induction system
11. 1969 Ford Talladega
Built for NASCAR homologation, the Talladega was an aerodynamic marvel powered by the FE V8. This limited-production model was designed to dominate on the high-speed ovals. The Talladega’s sleek body and powerful engine made it a force to be reckoned with on and off the track.
Best features:
- 428 cubic inch Cobra Jet FE V8 engine
- Extended nose and flush grille for improved aerodynamics
- Special suspension tuning for high-speed stability
12. 1970 Mercury Marauder X-100
The Marauder X-100 was Mercury’s ultimate expression of the full-size muscle car, featuring a potent FE V8. This luxurious bruiser combined opulent features with serious performance.
The X-100 package turned the Marauder into a true gentleman’s hot rod.
Best features:
- 429 cubic inch FE V8 producing 360 horsepower
- Unique styling with hidden headlights
- Comprehensive performance and luxury options
13. 1971 Ford LTD
Even as the muscle car era waned, the LTD continued to offer FE V8 power in a full-size package. This comfortable cruiser provided a smooth ride and ample power for highway driving.
The LTD demonstrated the FE engine’s adaptability to changing market demands.
Best features:
- Optional 390 cubic inch FE V8 engine
- Plush interior with sound insulation
- Advanced suspension for a “jet-smooth” ride
14. 1972 Ford F-100
The F-100 pickup truck benefited from the FE V8’s torque and reliability. This workhorse combined rugged capability with surprising performance.
The FE-powered F-100 became a favorite among farmers, contractors, and weekend warriors alike.
Best features:
- Available 360 cubic inch FE V8 engine
- Increased payload capacity
- Improved cab design for better comfort
The Ford FE V8 engine’s impact on American automotive history is undeniable. Its versatility allowed it to shine in a diverse array of vehicles, from practical family cars to high-performance racers.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
