Ford will be using a new, all-aluminum V6 engine for the base Ford Mustang, the company announced today. The engine is not only more powerful than the previous unit, but should also provide better fuel economy.
The company will use a 3.7-liter, 24-valve Duratec engine that produces 305-horsepower and up to 380 ft-lb of torque. This is a huge power improvement over the 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 used on the 2010 model year, despite the current unit having a larger displacement.
"This overlap control via Ti-VCT helps us eliminate compromises in the induction and exhaust systems," said Jim Mazuchowski, Ford manager of V-6 powertrain operations. "Drivers are going to notice improved low-speed torque and increased fuel economy and peak horsepower. Plus, there are benefits they won't notice, too, such as reduced emissions overall, especially at part-throttle."
The flexibility allowed by Ti-VCT means Mustang V-6 customers will experience:
-Better off-the-line launch feel, with plenty of the low-end "grunt" for which Mustang is famous. Ti-VCT can deliver up to a 5 percent improvement in low-end torque and a 7 percent improvement in peak power versus non-Ti-VCT-equipped engines.
-Improved fuel economy at all engine speeds resulting in projected 19 mpg city/30 highway with six-speed automatic transmission; 18 mpg city/29 highway with six-speed manual transmission. Ti-VCT alone can account for up to a 4.5 percent fuel economy improvement over non VCT engines.
-Lower emissions, with better control of NOx and HC throughout the range of engine operating speeds, reducing atmospheric pollution.
How the technology works
As a DOHC design, the 3.7-liter V-6 uses two camshafts per cylinder bank - one to open the intake valves and one to open the exhaust valves. Traditionally, camshafts only have been able to open the valves at a fixed point defined during engine design and manufacturing. But with modern variable cam timing systems, the camshafts can be rotated slightly relative to their initial position, allowing the cam timing to be "advanced" or "retarded."
Mustang V6 Performance Package
In an effort to promote the sporty nature of this new V6 Mustang, Ford will also offer customers the option of purchasing a high-performance package for their V6 Mustangs. The package, which will become available in August of 2010, includes the following:- A 3.31 rear axle ratio for quicker off-the-line acceleration
- Firmer Mustang GT suspension
- 19-inch wheels
- Summer performance tires for improved grip
- A strut tower brace for increased chassis rigidity
- Unique electronic stability control calibration with sport mode for performance driving.
2011 Ford Mustang v6 Engine
