How much horsepower does a 1972 Ford LTD have?
A 1972 Ford LTD didn’t have a single horsepower figure—the output depended on the engine. In factory form, the big-block 429 V8 produced about 360 horsepower (gross), while the 400 V8 offered roughly 180–210 horsepower (gross); net ratings would be lower.
The LTD range from that year carried several V8 options, and horsepower numbers varied with emission-era testing standards and drivetrain details. Below are the main factory engine choices and their typical power outputs, recognizing that figures can differ by market and exact configuration.
Engine options and horsepower
The following reflects the two most common factory engine choices for the 1972 LTD and their typical horsepower outputs when new. Note that early 1970s ratings used SAE gross horsepower, which are not directly comparable to modern net figures.
- 429 cu in V8 (4-barrel): approximately 360 horsepower gross, roughly 320–340 horsepower net depending on measurement and equipment.
- 400 cu in V8 (2-barrel or 4-barrel): approximately 180–210 horsepower gross, roughly 150–190 horsepower net depending on configuration and accessories.
In summary, a 1972 LTD could range from about 180 horsepower on the lower-end 400-powered cars to about 360 horsepower on the 429-powered models, with real-world numbers typically lower due to emission controls and accessories.
How horsepower was measured in the era
During the early 1970s, manufacturers used SAE gross horsepower for factory ratings, which tends to be higher than the modern SAE net numbers used after emissions tightening. This difference means that “gross” figures published in brochures often exceed what you’d see on a chassis dyno today.
Understanding gross vs. net
Gross horsepower is measured with minimal accessories and only the engine itself, while net horsepower accounts for alternators, power steering, mufflers, and other components. When comparing vintage figures to modern data, it’s important to note which standard was used.
Identifying the engine in a specific car
To know the exact horsepower for a given LTD, check the original build sheet or the engine code stamped on the block. Ford’s options lists and door data plates from 1972 will indicate whether a car came with a 429 or a 400 V8, which is the primary driver of the horsepower range for that year.
Summary
For a 1972 Ford LTD, horsepower isn’t fixed; it depends on the engine and rating method. The two main factory options—429 V8 and 400 V8—fall roughly in the 360 hp gross (429) and 180–210 hp gross (400) ranges, with net figures lower. When evaluating a specific car, the best approach is to confirm the engine code and consult the build sheet to determine the exact horsepower for that vehicle.
