How much horsepower does a 1979 351 Windsor have?
The 351 Windsor in 1979 delivered roughly 145–150 horsepower in its 2-barrel form and about 165–180 horsepower in the 4-barrel form, depending on the vehicle and emissions equipment.
Context: horsepower ratings in 1979
By 1979, Ford, like other American automakers, rated engines using SAE net horsepower, which accounts for accessories, exhaust, and cooling elements. Emissions controls and different vehicle applications (cars vs. trucks) influenced the exact figure your engine produced on a given day. The 351 Windsor was offered in multiple configurations, so power varied accordingly.
Common configurations and their horsepower
Below are the typical horsepower ranges associated with the 351 Windsor during the 1979 model year, depending on carburetion and equipment.
- 2-barrel (2V) configuration: approximately 145–150 horsepower (SAE net)
- 4-barrel (4V) configuration: approximately 165–180 horsepower (SAE net)
Note: These figures reflect standard production equipment and SAE net ratings for 1979. Actual output can vary based on model, emissions packages, gearing, and engine condition.
Where the 351 Windsor appeared in 1979
The 351 Windsor was used across a range of Ford vehicles in 1979, including pickup trucks, full-size cars, and light-duty vans. The same engine block supported multiple tune-ups and gearings, which is why horsepower could differ even within the same engine family.
Behavioral and restoration considerations
When evaluating a specific 1979 351 Windsor, it's important to identify the exact build: 2V vs 4V, carburetor type, compression ratio, camshaft, and emission equipment. Restorations or part swaps can shift horsepower by tens of watts-equivalent in real-world driving, even if the official rating remains within the listed range.
Summary
For the 1979 Ford 351 Windsor, horsepower generally fell in two main bands: about 145–150 hp for the 2-barrel configuration and about 165–180 hp for the 4-barrel configuration, as SAE net ratings. These numbers reflect the era’s emissions controls and rating standards, and exact output varies by application and condition. If you’re researching a specific vehicle, consult the build sheet or VIN-specific documentation to confirm the precise rating.
