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What cars came with a 289 engine?

The 289 engine was a popular V8 engine produced by Ford Motor Company in the 1960s. It was used in a variety of Ford and Lincoln-Mercury vehicles, known for its power and performance. Some of the most notable cars that came equipped with the 289 engine include the Ford Mustang, Ford Falcon, and Ford Fairlane.

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang, introduced in 1964, was one of the most iconic cars to feature the 289 engine. The Mustang's 289 V8 engine was available in several different configurations, ranging from the standard 200 horsepower version to the high-performance 271 horsepower "K-Code" variant. The 289 engine helped establish the Mustang as a powerful and popular sports car during the 1960s.

Ford Falcon

The Ford Falcon, a compact car produced from 1960 to 1970, also offered the 289 engine as an option. The Falcon's 289 V8 provided a significant power boost over the standard inline-six engine, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking more performance. The Falcon's 289 engine was available in both standard and high-performance versions.

Ford Fairlane

The Ford Fairlane, a mid-size car produced from 1962 to 1970, was another model that could be equipped with the 289 engine. The Fairlane's 289 V8 offered a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a versatile choice for both daily driving and performance-oriented applications. The Fairlane's 289 engine was available in a range of output levels to suit different customer needs.

Other Models

In addition to the Mustang, Falcon, and Fairlane, the 289 engine was also used in other Ford and Lincoln-Mercury vehicles during the 1960s, including the Ford Galaxie, Mercury Comet, and Lincoln Continental. The 289 engine's combination of power, reliability, and affordability made it a popular choice for a wide range of Ford and Lincoln-Mercury models.

Overall, the 289 engine played a significant role in the performance and popularity of many iconic American cars during the 1960s, helping to establish Ford as a leader in the automotive industry.

What car has a 289?

A high-performance version of the Challenger 289 engine was introduced late in the 1963 model year as a special order for Ford Fairlanes. The engine is informally known as the HiPo or the "K-code", after the engine letter used in the VIN code of cars so equipped.

What Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating.
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates

6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures.
5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues.
3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks.

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage.
1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks.
3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures.
2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans.

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

Was the 289 a good engine?

Yes, the Ford 289 is considered a good engine, especially the high-performance "Hi-Po" version, due to its strong racing pedigree, adaptability, and classic performance characteristics. It was a high-revving, lightweight, and versatile V8 that powered numerous successful race cars like the Shelby GT350 Mustang and Cobras, winning major events.
This video explains the history and performance of the Ford 289 engine: 55sWheelhouseYouTube · Mar 3, 2024
Key reasons the Ford 289 is a good engine

Successful racing heritage: The 289 was a formidable engine in competition, securing wins at legendary races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and dominating many European and American hill climbs and production car series.
High-performance "K-code" variant: The factory-rated 271-horsepower K-code version featured solid lifters, a more aggressive camshaft, and other enhancements that made it a potent and high-revving engine, often considered underrated.
Adaptable and versatile: The engine's design made it a popular choice for both factory performance applications and aftermarket modifications. It can be stroked to a larger displacement like 331 cubic inches or updated with aluminum heads to increase power and reduce weight.
Lightweight and high-revving: Its smaller size and lighter weight allowed it to compete favorably against larger engines, while its high-revving nature gave it a responsive and exciting character, particularly in early "pony cars" like the Mustang.
Good platform for upgrades: Even a standard 289 can be significantly improved with a few key upgrades, making it a great engine for enthusiasts who want to build a custom classic car.

How much horsepower does a 289 V8 have?

The horsepower for a 289 V8 engine varies significantly depending on the specific version, ranging from 195 hp for the base two-barrel model to 271 hp for the high-performance "K-Code" HiPo version. Performance enhancements, like those in the Shelby GT350, pushed the output to around 306 hp, with racing versions exceeding even that figure.

You can watch this video to learn about the different versions of the Ford 289 V8 engine: 54sBullnoseGarageYouTube · Feb 13, 2025

Base Model: The standard two-barrel 289 engine produced around 195 horsepower.
Four-Barrel Models: Four-barrel carburetor versions increased power, with an "A-code" producing 225 hp and the "D-code" at 210 hp before being upgraded.
High-Performance (K-Code): The "K-Code" or "HiPo" 289 engine, featuring a solid lifter camshaft and higher compression, was rated at 271 hp.
Shelby GT350: Carroll Shelby's modifications to the K-Code engine for the GT350 resulted in about 306 hp.
Racing Engines: Specially modified racing versions of the 289, such as those used in the FIA Cobra and other race cars, could produce horsepower well over 300, with some estimates reaching 350 hp or more.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.