How much horsepower does a 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 390 have?
The 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 is a classic American car that holds a special place in automotive history. Known for its stylish design and powerful engine options, the Galaxie 500 was a popular choice for drivers seeking both performance and comfort. One of the standout engine options for this model was the 390 cubic inch V8. In this article, we’ll explore the horsepower of the 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 equipped with the 390 engine and what made it such a remarkable choice for its time.
The Power of the 390 V8 Engine
The 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 offered several engine options, but the 390 cubic inch V8 was one of the most sought-after for its impressive performance. This engine came in multiple configurations, each delivering a different level of horsepower. Here’s a breakdown:
- Base 390 V8: The standard 390 engine produced approximately 275 horsepower, making it a solid choice for everyday driving with a balance of power and reliability.
- High-Performance 390 V8: For those seeking more power, Ford offered a high-performance version of the 390 engine, which delivered up to 335 horsepower. This version featured upgrades such as a four-barrel carburetor and improved exhaust flow, making it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts.
Why the 390 Engine Stood Out
The 390 V8 engine was part of Ford’s FE engine family, known for its durability and versatility. Here are some reasons why this engine was so popular:
- Performance: With up to 335 horsepower, the high-performance 390 provided thrilling acceleration and a satisfying driving experience.
- Customization: The engine could be easily modified for even greater performance, making it a favorite among hot rodders and racers.
- Reliability: The FE engine family was known for its robust construction, ensuring that the 390 could handle the demands of spirited driving.
Conclusion
The 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 with the 390 engine remains a classic example of American automotive engineering. Whether equipped with the base 275-horsepower version or the high-performance 335-horsepower variant, this car offered a blend of power, style, and reliability that continues to captivate car enthusiasts today. If you’re lucky enough to own one of these iconic vehicles, maintaining its engine in top condition is key to preserving its legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much HP can a Ford 390 make?
With the single-plane intake and the big tube headers, the torque peak moved higher in the rpm band by about 1,500 rpm, and the engine peaked at 518 lb-ft and 551 hp. The addition of a roller cam and valvetrain would get this engine into the 575-600hp range, making it a very potent package.
How much horsepower does a 1966 Ford Fairlane 427 have?
425 horsepower
Along with a 500 model's standard rocker panel and wheel opening moldings, 427 Fairlanes came with one of these warning signs on each front fender. Offered in Fords from '65 through '67, the Fairlane's Medium-Riser 427 dual-quad, solid-lifter engine was rated at 425 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 480 Ibs.
What was the top speed of the 1966 Ford Galaxie?
The 1966 Ford Galaxie 7 Litre was a fast car for the weight that it had to drag down the track. From a complete stop, the car could sprint to 60 in around 5.8 seconds, achieving a top-end speed of 150 miles per hour.
How much horsepower does a 1966 Ford Galaxie 390 have?
The vehicle was equipped with a 390 cubic inch (6.4 liter) V8 engine generating 270 horsepower and 403 lb-ft torque. It featured a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The car had a wheelbase of 119 inches, a length of 209 inches, and a weight of around 3,800 pounds.
What is a 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $28,456 for a 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1966 Ford Galaxie 500? The highest selling price of a 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 at auction over the last three years was $42,000.
How much horsepower does a 1966 Ford Fairlane GT 390 have?
As discussed here, the '66 390 Fairlane GTs and GT/As were oneyear-only offerings. Unavailable in any other Ford product (except in Mercury's midsize Cyclone GT), a 335-horsepower 390 V8 was the one-and-only powerplant offered in the Fairlane GT.
How much horsepower can a Ford 390 make?
If you dial a budget cast-steel stroker crank, heavy-duty I-beam rods, and Mahle forged pistons from Eagle Specialties to achieve 431ci, you can make 450 to 500 hp with factory cylinder head castings. Do some port work, dial in the right Crane hydraulic roller cam, and you can make brute street torque all day long.
How much horsepower does a 1964 Ford Galaxie 390 have?
330 horsepower
It included a heavy-duty 390 cubic inch V8 that was rated at 330 horsepower, up 30 over the standard Z-code's 300.
Is a Ford Galaxie a muscle car?
The 1962 Ford Galaxie 406 brought newfound power to the company's muscle cars. Ford began 1962 without an engine over 400 cid, a serious deficiency against 409 Chevys, 413 Mopars, and 421 Pontiacs. The remedy came partway into the season with an enlargement of the 390-cid Ford to 406 cubic inches.
What engine is in a 1966 Ford Galaxie 500?
428 cubic-inch V-8
This excellent example of the 1966 Galaxie 500 7-Litre earns its hot-rod merit badge for being powered by Blue Oval's 345-horsepower, 428 cubic-inch V-8, and, despite its C6 automatic transmission, having other drivetrain treatments that are required for that status.
