The Ford M8MA is a 289 cubic inch (4.7 L), overhead valve (OHV), V8 petrol engine produced between 1964 and 1973. It was a key powerplant in Ford's North American lineup during the muscle car era, featuring a two-barrel carburetor and cast-iron block and heads. This engine delivered reliable performance and was known for its durability, producing approximately 200–220 hp depending on configuration.
Fitted primarily in the first-generation Ford Mustang, Fairlane, and Mercury Cougar, the M8MA was engineered for balanced street performance and everyday drivability. Its design emphasized torque delivery in the mid-range, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. Emissions compliance was not a major design factor during its production run, as regulations were minimal prior to the mid-1970s.
One documented engineering update occurred in 1967, when Ford revised the cylinder head casting and valve train geometry to improve combustion efficiency. This change, detailed in internal Ford Engineering Memo EM-67-089, enhanced low-end torque and reduced valve train noise. Later models also featured a revised intake manifold to accommodate evolving carburetor requirements.
Production years 1964–1973 predate modern emissions standards; no Euro compliance applies (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable).
The Ford M8MA is a 4.7 L V8 OHV petrol engine engineered for North American performance and personal vehicles (1964–1973). It combines a cast-iron block with a two-barrel carbureted fuel system to deliver responsive mid-range power and cruising capability. Designed before modern emissions regulations, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,727 cc (289 cu in) | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded or Leaded) | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 73.0 mm (4.00 in × 2.87 in) | |
| Power output | 200–220 hp (149–164 kW) | |
| Torque | 370–410 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | 2-barrel carburetor (Autolite 2100) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulatory (no formal standard) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 (typical) | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, front-mounted radiator | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 (conventional) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg (approx.) |
The OHV V8 design provides smooth power delivery and strong low-to-mid range torque ideal for classic American driving. Regular oil changes (every 5,000–8,000 km) with conventional SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 oil are essential to maintain camshaft and lifter longevity. Use of leaded fuel or additives is recommended if running solid lifters to prevent cam lobe wear. The Autolite 2100 carburetor requires periodic tuning and gasket replacement to maintain fuel metering accuracy. Cooling system integrity is critical—verify thermostat and water pump function to prevent overheating in modern traffic conditions. Cylinder head cracking can occur under sustained load if cooling is compromised.
Oil Specs: Requires conventional SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 (Ford Owner's Manual 1967 Mustang). Solid lifter applications benefit from ZDDP-containing oils.
Emissions: No emissions certification applies; pre-1970 engines not subject to Euro or EPA standards (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE Gross standards. Output varies with carburetor and exhaust configuration (Ford Performance Bulletin PB-65-02).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-8820, SM-F-104
Ford Engineering Drawing ED-M8MA-BST
Ford Performance Bulletin PB-65-02
The Ford M8MA was used across Ford's Mustang, Fairlane, and Mercury platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture across the Ford Motor Company lineup. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifolds tuned for Mustang vs. Fairlane applications-and from 1967, revised cylinder heads with improved port flow, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side cylinder block near the front bellhousing flange (Ford TIS ENG-8820). The eighth digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('H' for 289 V8 in Mustangs). Pre-1967 models have early-style valve covers with "289" casting; post-1967 units use revised valve covers with improved baffling. Critical differentiation from 302 V8: M8MA has a 289 casting on the block and shorter stroke. Service parts require casting number verification—intake manifolds and cylinder heads differ between Mustang and Fairlane applications per Ford Engineering Memo EM-67-089.
The M8MA's primary reliability risk is valve train wear on high-mileage or poorly maintained units, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Ford field reports from 1970 noted increased lifter and cam lobe wear in units with extended oil change intervals, while UK classic car MOT data shows cooling system failures as a leading cause of overheating-related damage. Infrequent warm-ups and outdated coolant increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and proper oil selection critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1964-1973) and UK DVSA classic vehicle failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M8MA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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