What engine came in the 1981 Ford F100?
In 1981 the Ford F-100 offered multiple engine options, including a 4.9-liter inline-six and several V8s: 5.0-liter (302), 5.8-liter (351 Windsor), 6.6-liter (400), and 7.5-liter (460), with availability varying by trim and configuration.
This article explores how that engine lineup shaped the F-100’s performance, towing capability, and daily utility in 1981, and how buyers chose among the options based on work needs, economy, and power needs.
Engine lineup for the 1981 F-100
Below is a summary of the core engines that were commonly available in the 1981 F-100, reflecting Ford's range from economical everyday driving to heavy-duty hauling.
- 4.9 L inline-six (300 cu in) — The entry-level workhorse, prized for reliability and torque for everyday tasks.
- 5.0 L V8 (302 cu in) — A modernized small-block V8 option providing more power than the inline-six while preserving reasonable economy.
- 5.8 L V8 (351 Windsor) — A larger V8 offering greater torque for towing and payloads.
- 6.6 L V8 (400 cu in) — A big-block option for heavy-duty work, delivering substantial low-end torque.
- 7.5 L V8 (460 cu in) — The largest V8 offered for the F-100, designed for serious hauling and high-torque applications.
These engine choices gave buyers a spectrum of power, durability, and fuel economy, with availability contingent on the truck’s trim level, cab/bed configuration, and regional market.
Notes on performance and context
In an era when work trucks balanced rugged capability with- relative fuel considerations, Ford provided both the economical inline-six and a ladder of V8 options to suit different jobs—from daily driving and light towing to heavy-haul duties. The precise combinations varied by year, body style, and regional dealer offerings.
Summary
The 1981 Ford F-100 offered a diverse engine lineup, including a 4.9 L inline-six and V8s in 5.0 L, 5.8 L, 6.6 L, and 7.5 L displacements. This range reflected Ford’s strategy to equip the popular light-duty truck with both economical and high-torque power options, allowing buyers to tailor performance to their specific needs and budgets in the early 1980s.
What engines are available in the 1981 Ford f150?
Powertrain details
| Ford F-Series engines (1980–1986) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Configuration | Output |
| Ford Small Block V8 | 4.9 L (302 cu in) V8 | 190 hp (142 kW) |
| Ford 351M V8 | 5.8 L (351 cu in) V8 | 136 hp (101 kW) |
| Ford Small Block V8 | 136 hp (101 kW) |
What engine does a Ford F100 have?
The F-100 was offered with the gasoline-powered Y-Block 272 V8 and the Lima OHC 2.3L inline-four in both gasoline and dedicated ethanol versions. It was only available in a single cab, short box body style, and 2-wheel drive. The F-100 was discontinued in 1985. The F-1000 was produced since 1979 until 1992.
Is the 300 inline 6 a good engine?
The Workhorse: Ford 300 Inline-Six Engine (1965-1996) Renowned for its durability and torque, the Ford 300 inline-six powered trucks, vans, and industrial machines for over three decades. With up to 260 lb-ft of torque, this iconic engine became a legend in heavy- duty performance and reliability.
What is a 1981 Ford F100 worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $8,256 for a 1981 Ford F-100 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.
