What engines were available in a 1960 Ford F100?
The 1960 Ford F-100 offered two engine choices: a 223 cubic inch inline-six and a 292 cubic inch V8, balancing efficiency with the capability needed for heavier work tasks.
This article reviews those two powerplants, how they fit Ford's 1960 F-Series lineup, and what buyers could expect in terms of performance and daily utility for a mid-century pickup.
Engine options for the 1960 F-100
Ford's 1960 F-100 lineup centered on two core powerplants that covered both economy and payload capability. The available engines were:
- 223 cubic inch (3.7 L) inline-six, commonly known as the Mileage Maker
- 292 cubic inch (4.8 L) Y-block V8, the larger power option for extra torque
These engines could be paired with a range of transmissions, typically a 3-speed manual, with some configurations offering an automatic option depending on market and cab/bed setup.
In context, the two-engine approach for the 1960 F-100 reflected Ford's focus on delivering a dependable daily driver with enough torque for hauling and larger loads when needed.
Historical context and buyer considerations
For buyers, the choice boiled down to daily economy versus raw pulling power. The inline-six offered better fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance, while the 292 V8 provided stronger acceleration and payload capability for work tasks and highway towing typical of the era's mid-size pickups.
Ultimately, the 1960 F-100's powertrain lineup was intentionally simple: two engines that balanced practicality and performance for a broad range of customers, from farmers to small-business owners.
Summary
In 1960, the Ford F-100's engines were limited to two options—the Mileage Maker 223 inline-six and the 292 cubic inch Y-block V8—providing a straightforward choice between economy and capability for the era's pickup buyers.
