What engine came in the 1973 Ford F100?
There were several engines available for the 1973 Ford F-100: inline-sixes in 240 and 300 cubic inches, and V8 options in 302, 360, and 390 cubic inches. The exact engine depended on the truck’s configuration and options chosen.
In 1973, the Ford F-100 was part of a broad lineup within the F-Series, offering a range of powerplants to suit light-duty daily driving, work needs, or heavier-haul duty. Engine availability varied by cab/bed configuration and market, and emissions regulations of the era also influenced engine output and tuning.
Engine options for the 1973 F-100
Inline-six options
Inline-six engines were a common baseline choice for durability and economy. The two most typical displacements for the 1973 F-100 were as follows:
- 240 cu in (3.9 L) inline-six
- 300 cu in (4.9 L) inline-six
Inline-sixes offered solid reliability and lower operating costs, making them popular for fleets and buyers prioritizing efficiency.
V8 options
For customers needing more power for towing, payload, or performance, several V8 options were available:
- 302 cu in (5.0 L) Windsor V8
- 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8
- 390 cu in (6.4 L) FE-series V8
V8 options provided greater torque and pulling capability, appealing to those who used the truck for heavy work or demanding tasks.
Notes on availability
The exact engine configuration for a given 1973 F-100 could vary by trim level, cab/bed configuration, and regional market. If you’re restoring or researching a specific truck, check the original window sticker or VIN data plate to confirm the factory-installed engine.
Summary
The 1973 Ford F-100 offered a versatile engine lineup rather than a single choice: 240 and 300 cubic inch inline-sixes for efficiency, plus V8 options of 302, 360, and 390 cubic inches for extra power. Availability depended on configuration and market, giving buyers options from economical daily use to capable work-truck performance.
