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A Deep Dive into the History and Performance of This Rare Breed

The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car, but did you know there’s a rare variant that combines a 3.8L six-cylinder engine with fuel injection? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, …


Updated July 13, 2023

The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car, but did you know there’s a rare variant that combines a 3.8L six-cylinder engine with fuel injection? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, performance, and mechanics of these unique vehicles.

The Ford Mustang has been in production since 1964, and over the years, it’s undergone many transformations to stay relevant. One such transformation was the introduction of a six-cylinder engine with fuel injection in some models. In this article, we’ll focus on the Ford ‘38 6-Cyl Fuel Injection Mustangs.

History

The first generation of Ford Mustangs (1964-1973) offered several engine options, including a 289 cubic-inch V8 and a 170 cubic-inch inline-six. However, in some years, the six-cylinder engine was paired with fuel injection to improve its performance. This configuration was relatively rare, especially when compared to the more powerful V8 variants.

Engine Specifications

The Ford ‘38 6-Cyl Fuel Injection Mustangs used a 3.8L (232 cubic-inch) inline-six cylinder engine, which produced around 155 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque in its standard configuration. When equipped with fuel injection, the engine’s performance was significantly improved, producing up to 170 horsepower.

Fuel Injection System

The fuel injection system used in these Mustangs was a carburetor-based system, but with an additional electric fuel pump and a metering unit that provided precise control over fuel delivery. This setup allowed for better engine performance, especially at high altitudes or when driving with a heavy load.

Performance

While not as powerful as the V8 variants, the Ford ‘38 6-Cyl Fuel Injection Mustangs were still quite capable performers. They had a top speed of around 105-110 mph (169-177 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 12-13 seconds.

Mechanical Overview

The engine and transmission in these Mustangs were relatively standard for the era. The inline-six cylinder engine used a cast iron block with aluminum heads, while the four-speed manual transmission was designed to provide smooth shifting and durability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ford ‘38 6-Cyl Fuel Injection Mustangs are rare and unique variants that offer an interesting blend of performance and mechanical complexity. While they may not be as well-known or highly sought after as some other Mustang models, they still have a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciate their history and capabilities.

Specifications

  • Engine: 3.8L (232 cubic-inch) inline-six cylinder
  • Fuel injection system: Carburetor-based with electric fuel pump and metering unit
  • Power output: Up to 170 horsepower
  • Torque output: Around 220 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Four-speed manual
  • Top speed: Around 105-110 mph (169-177 km/h)
  • Acceleration: 0-60 mph in around 12-13 seconds

References

  • Ford Mustang sales data and specifications from various sources, including manufacturer’s literature and enthusiast publications.
  • Historical records and articles related to the development and production of the Ford ‘38 6-Cyl Fuel Injection Mustangs.