Earlier this year, Ford hinted at a new-for-2020 engine it nicknamed “Godzilla”—and the name can’t be more fitting.
The new 7.3-liter gasoline V-8 engine, dubbed as the “best in class,” makes 430 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 475 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
The “Godzilla” will also be Ford’s answer to the powerful engines launched by its truck industry rivals, General Motors and Ram. GM previously introduced its 6.6-liter V-8 rated at 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, while Ram has a 6.4-liter gasoline Hemi V-8 that makes 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
The introduction of the “Godzilla” V-8 marks the end of Ford’s modular V-10 engine, which has been a reliable option for Ford’s trucks, save for its teething issues. It set to make its debut in the Ford F-250 and F-350 HD Super Duty models. Shortly thereafter, it will make its way in the entire HD and commercial lineup.
In designing its new gasoline V-8, Ford opted for the pushrod design with a forged steel crankshaft that comes with extra large main bearings. The automaker also added a variable-displacement oil pump and piston cooling jets to better manage temperature under heavy load.
The introduction of a gasoline option for its models is seen as an essential requirement by Ford in consideration of location, convenience, regulations, and fleet management. It also gives more flexibility for owners of F-250 and F-350 trucks who are looking for enhanced capability without having to commit on a diesel engine.
When it debuts in the F-250 and F-350 trucks, the new 7.3-liter V-8 will be mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission based on what is currently being used in the F-150 model. Ford has also hinted that with the 10-speed transmission, fuel economy numbers for the F-series trucks will show significant improvements.
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