Alex 
While the most obvious changes between the S550 Mustang and the S650 Mustang is of course the design. But even if the architecture between the two at its core is shared as we understand it to be, the changes are nevertheless noticeable everywhere, even under the hood. While the new Ford Mustang debuted with a familiar lineup: a 5.0L Coyote V8 and a 2.3L EcoBoost turbo, these engine architectures also see major updates. And while finalized power numbers continue to wait in the wing on these new Ford Mustang engines, we nevertheless have more details to share.
Fourth-Generation 5.0L Coyote V8 Updates
Ford Motor Company went ahead and updated what has become one of its most iconic engines: the 5.0L Coyote V8. For the fourth-generation of this DOHC engine, there now exists two 80 mm throttle bodies, along with two air intake boxes. This setup allows for two plenums to feed eight cylinders instead of just one. As a result, the S650 Mustang can breathe in more air than before, which sets off en entire chain of events. More air means there can be more fuel. Which means there can be bigger chambered combustion per cylinder. Which means more power. To that end, Ford promises a minimum of 480 horsepower in the 2024 Mustang GT and GT Performance Pack, while the new Coyote King, the Mustang Dark Horse, will deliver a minimum of 500 horsepower, marking 100 naturally aspirated horses per liter. It’s not quite Corvette Z06 territory, which has almost 122 hp per liter, but the Coyote isn’t exactly cradled in a six figure car. Hopefully, Ford can do with the new Mustang GT what muscle cars are supposed to do best, which is to deliver the most power for the money as possible.
Of course all of that extra airflow in the new Ford Mustang Coyote V8 engine would mean nothing without an exhaust to match. So, the camshafts have been given more lift on the exhaust valves, allowing for the spent charge to more easily exit the chamber. In addition, the left-side exhaust manifold has been reworked to increase flow and reduce interference.
With more power, engines also produce more heat. Which means that they need improved cooling in order to maintain performance. Therefore, along with a standard oil cooler, Ford has also redesigned the oil pan to reduce windage (the flow of air in the crankcase), in turn creating a reduction in unwanted pressure that restricts piston speed.
S650 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Turbo Engine Updates
Don’t think that the V8 is the only player in this game either, Ford has also reworked the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine to increase efficiency and power, to the point where they’re calling it “all-new”, but wound’t get too deep into the specifics. The friction in the engine has been reduced for better efficiency, while the bore and stroke have been reworked for a better compression ratio and improved thermal efficiency.
A hot-side EGR valve with improved control decreases emissions (but also probably reduces the longevity of the EcoBoost engine – recirculating all of that particulate air is one of the reasons why the diesel community avoids and resents EGR systems. But, hey, the EPA must be appeased, or else.), while the twin-scroll turbocharger has a high-speed electronic wastegate system. The spark plugs in the new 2.3L EcoBoost engine in the S650 Mustang are also indexed for optimal burn, and the compact Variable Cam Timing features an integrated central oil control valve.
Like the new Coyote V8, Ford is keeping power numbers on the new EcoBoost engine in the 2024 Mustang on the down low for now. So stay tuned to MC&T in order to catch the moment when that changes.
