The third-generation Mustang produced between 1979 and 1993 is generally known as the ‘Fox Body’ Mustang since it was built on the Fox platform. By the time the Fox Body’s run ended, Ford had made more than 2.6 million, which makes them easy to come by and relatively cheap on the secondhand market. That’s a good thing, because even though many ’80s Mustangs had a 5.0 liter V8, a Coyote of the same displacement is much larger and requires substantial modifications to the car for a proper fit. The major effort required for this swap is worth the trouble, as you’ll end up with a 400-500 horsepower engine in a 3,000-pound car. Late Model Restoration and TD Motion sell pre-fabricated Fox body Coyote swap kits that will shave many hours off of this project, but they will also take a bite out of your budget.
To complete this swap, you’ll need to replace the motor mounts and brake booster, modify the K-member and sway bar, install new exhaust, and replace the oil pan and filter. You’ll also need a new engine computer and electronic throttle. The Fox body transmissions aren’t built to handle the power of a Coyote engine, so you’ll also need to drop in a newer Tremec T56 six-speed manual or 4R70W four-speed automatic. As previously said, this is a great swap once finished, but it’s neither easy nor inexpensive to complete.
