How many valves does a Ford 5.0 have?

The number depends on the specific 5.0 variant. The classic Windsor-based 5.0 V8 uses 16 valves in total, while the modern 5.0 Coyote DOHC engine uses 32 valves.

Two main Ford 5.0 families

Ford has used the 5.0 designation for more than one V8, with different valvetrain architectures driving the change in valve count. Here are the two most commonly referenced variants.

• Windsor 5.0 (302) – 16 valves total (2 valves per cylinder).


• Coyote 5.0 – 32 valves total (4 valves per cylinder).

In short, the older, non‑DOHC Windsor 5.0 uses 16 valves, while the newer DOHC Coyote 5.0 uses 32 valves.

Why the difference?

The valve count mirrors the underlying valvetrain design. The Windsor 5.0 is a pushrod (OHV) engine with a single camshaft in the block and two valves per cylinder, prioritizing simplicity and torque. The modern Coyote 5.0 is a dual overhead cam (DOHC) engine with four valves per cylinder, enabling improved breathing, higher RPM potential, and better efficiency.

Generation details

Ford Windsor 5.0 (2 valves per cylinder, 16 total)

This classic 5.0 family traces back to the 1960s and was widely used through the late 20th century in Mustangs and other Fords. Its OHV design keeps valve counts at 16, with one intake and one exhaust valve per cylinder. The arrangement is known for rugged low- and mid-range torque, straightforward maintenance, and a long aftermarket legacy.

Ford 5.0 Coyote (DOHC, 32 valves)

Introduced in the 2011 Mustang GT and now a staple in modern performance Fords, the Coyote 5.0 uses dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder (two intake, two exhaust). This results in 32 valves total and supports higher revs, improved airflow, and advanced fuel-and-ignition strategies, contributing to higher power outputs and efficiency.

Summary

In the Ford 5.0 lineup, the valve count depends on the model year and design. The classic Windsor-based 5.0 V8 has 16 valves, while the modern Coyote 5.0 DOHC has 32 valves. When identifying a specific engine, noting whether it’s a pushrod Windsor or a DOHC Coyote will clarify the valve count and overall performance characteristics.

What is special about the 5.0 Coyote engine?

The 5.0 Coyote engine is considered good because it offers an excellent balance of high performance, fuel efficiency, durability, and a versatile platform for modification. Key features like its dual-overhead cam (DOHC) design and Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing) allow for greater volumetric efficiency, higher RPM power delivery, and optimized performance for both daily driving and racing. Its widespread use in the Mustang and F-150 also makes it a popular choice with a large, supportive aftermarket community.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Ford Coyote engine: 56sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 2, 2025
Key features and benefits

• High Performance: The DOHC design provides better airflow than older pushrod engines, allowing the Coyote to achieve higher horsepower figures, especially at high RPMs. 
• Variable Cam Timing: Ti-VCT technology allows the engine to adjust cam timing for either maximum power when needed or better fuel economy and lower emissions during cruising. 
• Durability: The engine uses high-strength components like connecting rods and a structural oil pan to handle the stress of performance driving. 
• Modification Potential: The efficient airflow and design of the Coyote make it respond very well to modifications like forced induction, allowing it to achieve high horsepower figures (800-1,000+ hp) with relatively simpler additions like boost and fuel system upgrades compared to some competitors. 
• Versatility: It is available in a wide range of Ford vehicles, including the Mustang and F-150, and can be tuned differently for specific applications (e.g., more low-end torque for trucks). 
• Cost-Effective: Its prevalence means there are many available parts, including those from different generations, which can be combined for cost-effective builds. 

How many valves does a 5.0 coyote have?

A 5.0 Coyote engine has 32 valves, with 4 valves per cylinder. This is a feature of the Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design, which uses four valves per cylinder for better performance and efficiency.
 

• The engine is a V8, with 4 valves on each of the 8 cylinders. 
• This configuration allows for improved airflow into and out of the cylinders, contributing to the engine's power output. 

Are a 302 and a 5.0 the same?

Yes, a Ford 302 cubic inch (CID) engine is also called a 5.0L (liter) engine. While the 302 is technically about 4.94.94.9 liters, Ford adopted the "5.0" name in the late 1970s for marketing purposes to better distinguish it from other engines. The terms "302" and "5.0" are now used interchangeably by enthusiasts.
 
This video explains the history and specifications of the Ford 302 engine: 59sLate Model Restoration (LMR)YouTube · Feb 18, 2021

• Technical vs. common name: A 302 cubic inch engine is approximately 4.94.94.9 liters (4.954.954.95 L). However, Ford started referring to it as a 5.0L around 1978, and this name stuck. 
• Interchangeable terms: The 302 CID designation and the 5.0L designation are used interchangeably today. 
• Marketing: Ford chose the "5.0" name partly to avoid confusion with its 300 cubic inch (4.9L) inline-six engine. 

This video explains the differences between the 302 Ford engine and the 305 Chevy engine: 1mRichard HoldenerYouTube · Mar 26, 2020

How many cylinders does a 5.0 engine have?

8
- Displacement: 5.0 liters (302 cubic inches) - Cylinder Count: 8. - Valves: 32 valves (4 valves per cylinder) - Camshaft: Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT)