How much horsepower does a 1987 Ford 302 have?
The 1987 Ford 302 Windsor, commonly known as the 5.0, delivered about 225 horsepower in its most performance-focused configuration. This figure refers to the popular 5.0L High-Output variant used in many Ford passenger cars that year.
In 1987, Ford equipped a range of vehicles with the 302 Windsor, and horsepower varied by model, tuning, and emissions controls. This article outlines the main figure associated with the era and explains how ratings differed across applications.
The 302 Windsor in 1987: A Snapshot
For enthusiasts and collectors, the most recognizable 1987 302 engine is the 5.0L High-Output (HO) version found in the Mustang GT and other contemporaries. It is commonly cited at 225 horsepower (SAE net) for that year, reflecting the standard measurement used at the time by automakers and in contemporary literature.
Horsepower figures by configuration
Below are the typical outputs associated with major 1987 302 Windsor configurations. The figures reflect commonly cited specifications for the era and note the variability by vehicle and tuning.
- 5.0L High-Output (HO) V8 in Mustang GT and other 1987 passenger models: 225 horsepower (SAE net).
- Other 1987 302-based configurations (such as base 5.0 setups in trucks or non-HO variants): generally lower, often in the rough range of 180–210 horsepower depending on application and emissions tuning.
Note on ratings: The horsepower figures cited are SAE net horsepower as used in 1987 promotional material and vehicle labels. Some older literature or non-U.S. markets may reference gross horsepower or different testing standards, which can produce higher numbers.
What this means for collectors and drivers today
For modern restorations or purchasing a vintage 1987 Ford, the key takeaway is that the 5.0 HO version is the canonical 225-horsepower figure most people seek in a Mustang GT or similar model from that year. If you’re evaluating a 302-powered Ford from 1987, confirm whether the car has the HO specification or a lower-output configuration, as that will directly affect performance and value. Documentation, engine codes, and factory badges can help clarify which variant is installed.
How to identify a 1987 5.0 HO engine
Look for typical indicators such as the presence of the HO badge on the vehicle and corroborating build documents. The HO version generally featured higher compression and a more aggressive cam setup compared with non-HO 302 engines. If you’re uncertain, consult the VIN and engine codes or seek guidance from a Ford enthusiast community or a qualified mechanic who can verify the spec through casting numbers and serial data.
Summary: In 1987, the Ford 302 Windsor’s standout horsepower figure was 225 hp for the High-Output HO variant, most famously used in the Mustang GT. Other 302-based setups in that year varied downward based on tuning, compression, and emissions equipment, typically landing somewhere below 225 hp. For collectors, confirming whether a particular car uses the HO configuration is essential for understanding its performance footprint.
