302 Windsor
Ford's 5.0-liter small-block V8 engine, essentially a stroked version of the 289 with more displacement and torque. The engine that powered millions of Mustangs from 1968 onward—and the popular upgrade for tired 289s.
What '302 Windsor' Actually Means
The 302 Windsor is Ford's evolution of the 289, sharing the same basic block architecture but with a longer stroke crankshaft. The result: 302 cubic inches (4.95 liters) versus the 289's 289 cubic inches (4.7 liters).
Key specs:
- Displacement: 302 cubic inches (5.0L)
- Bore × Stroke: 4.00" × 3.00"
- Years in Mustangs: 1968–1995 (various versions)
- Typical output: 210–290 hp depending on year and configuration
- Also called: "5.0," "302," "5.0L Windsor"
The 302 uses the same Windsor block family as the 289, meaning many parts interchange. Heads, intake manifolds, and accessories from a 289 often bolt onto a 302. This makes the 302 a popular upgrade path for owners with tired 289s—more power without major modifications.
Why "Windsor"?
Built at Ford's Windsor, Ontario engine plant (among others). This distinguishes it from the 351 Cleveland and 351 Modified engines, which came from different plants and have different architectures.
I swapped a 302 into my car when the original 289 needed a rebuild. Cost difference between rebuilding the 289 versus buying a crate 302? About $500 more for the 302, but I got 50 more horsepower and modern reliability. Best $500 I spent on the car.
Why It Matters for Your Mustang
The 302 is relevant because:
For 1968–1973 Mustangs:
- Factory-original engine option
- Replacement parts widely available
- Rebuild-friendly with abundant shop experience
- Performance upgrades well-documented
For 1965–1967 Mustangs (289 cars):
- Direct bolt-in upgrade from 289
- Same motor mounts, transmission bellhousing pattern
- More torque for street driving
- Modern crate versions available with warranty
Advantages over 289:
- More displacement = more torque
- Stronger bottom end (thicker main webs)
- Better parts availability (still in production until 1995)
- Modern crate engines use 302 architecture
The rebuild vs. crate decision:
If your 289 needs a rebuild ($3,500–$6,000), consider a 302 crate engine ($4,500–$8,000). For slightly more money, you get:
- Brand new engine with warranty
- Modern machining tolerances
- No core issues or hidden problems
- More power
302 vs 289 vs 351W Quick Comparison:
| **Engine** | **Displacement** | **Torque Character** | **Best For** |
|---|---|---|---|
| 289 | 289 ci (4.7L) | Revs high, less low-end | Originality, lightweight builds |
| 302 | 302 ci (5.0L) | Balanced, good street torque | Daily driving, mild performance |
| 351W | 351 ci (5.8L) | Strong low-end torque | Serious power, towing, muscle |
The 302 hits the sweet spot for most Mustang owners: enough power for fun, not too much for the brakes and suspension to handle, parts everywhere.
Cost Impact
| Repair Type | Typical Cost (LA) | Labor Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Basic 302 rebuild (stock specs) | $3,500–$6,000 | 30–50 hours + machine shop |
| Performance rebuild (upgraded internals) | $6,000–$10,000 | 40–60 hours + performance parts |
| Crate 302 (290–330 hp) | $4,500–$7,000 | Engine only, ready to install |
| Crate 302 (350+ hp) | $7,000–$12,000 | Performance build, dyno tested |
| Installation labor (if not DIY) | $1,500–$3,000 | 15–30 hours swap labor |
*LA labor rates: $110–$165/hour depending on shop. Machine shop costs (rebuild path): Bore & hone ($200–$400), Crank grinding ($150–$350), Valve job ($200–$400 per head), Hot tank cleaning ($100–$200), Balancing ($200–$400). The wildcard: What you discover during teardown. Worn cam bearings? Add $300. Cracked head? Add $400–$800. Scored cylinder walls requiring oversize pistons? Add $600–$1,000. Budget 20–30% over the initial rebuild quote for surprises.
Ask me how I know these numbers.
Common Issues
Oil Leaks
Rear main seal, oil pan gasket, valve covers (all common)
Timing Chain Stretch
Original chains wear, cause timing retard
Valve Guide Wear
Burns oil, especially on high-mileage engines
Carburetor Issues
2V and 4V carbs require tuning/rebuild
Cooling Challenges
Marginal in LA traffic without upgrades
See This in Action
- Mustang Engine Rebuild Cost Guide
Detailed 302 rebuild vs. crate engine cost comparisons and decision frameworks
Want to Learn More?
Download the Mustang Restoration Starter Kit (LA Edition) for:
- Complete terminology reference guide
- Cost estimation worksheets
- Pre-purchase inspection checklist
- Shop interview questions
- Project timeline planning tools
No upsells. No bait-and-switch. Just the information Dorian wishes he'd had before he bought his first project car.