The Ford F-Series F-100 with the 5.8L (352 cubic inch) V8 engine, producing 208 horsepower, was a significant offering within the fifth generation of Ford’s immensely popular pickup truck line. Produced from 1966 to 1968, this variant occupied a middle ground in the F-100 lineup, offering a substantial power upgrade over the smaller inline-six and smaller V8 options, while remaining more accessible than the larger and more expensive 6.4L (390 cubic inch) engines. This generation, often referred to as the F-Series V, represented a major redesign for the Ford truck family, introducing a more modern aesthetic and improved comfort features. The F-100 was the lighter-duty offering, positioned below the heavier-duty F-250 and F-350 models, and primarily targeted towards individual owners and smaller businesses needing a versatile and capable work truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-100 V |
| Type (Engine) | 5.8 352 V8 (208 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1966 |
| End of production | 1968 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 208 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 36.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 427 Nm @ 2400 rpm / 314.94 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5768 cm3 / 351.98 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm / 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 88.9 mm / 3.5 in. |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Coolant | 19.9 l / 21.03 US qt | 17.51 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 2268 kg / 5000.08 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1274-2163 l / 44.99 – 76.39 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74 l / 19.55 US gal | 16.28 UK gal |
| Length | 4636-5138 mm / 182.52 – 202.28 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2921-3327 mm / 115 – 130.98 in. |
| Wading depth | 658-660 mm / 25.91 – 25.98 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Drum |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15; 225/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-100 variant was the Ford 352 cubic inch (5.8L) V8 engine. This engine, part of the Ford FE engine family, was a robust and relatively simple design. It featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads, with a two-barrel carburetor handling fuel delivery. The 352 utilized a hydraulic lifter valvetrain, contributing to quieter operation and reduced maintenance compared to solid lifter designs. The engine’s 8.9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the fuel quality available at the time. The standard transmission for this model year was a three-speed manual, although a Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission was available as an option. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis, driving the rear wheels through a conventional driveshaft.
Driving Characteristics
The 208 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque provided by the 352 V8 gave the F-100 a noticeable performance advantage over models equipped with the smaller engines. While not a sports truck by any means, the 352 offered sufficient power for hauling moderate loads and maintaining highway speeds. The three-speed manual transmission provided a direct connection to the engine, allowing for good control, but required more driver involvement than the automatic option. The gear ratios were optimized for torque delivery, prioritizing pulling power over outright acceleration. Compared to the larger 390 V8, the 352 felt less strained during acceleration and offered a slightly more manageable driving experience, particularly for those less accustomed to large displacement engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-100 with the 352 V8 typically came standard with basic features, reflecting its work-oriented nature. This included a simple vinyl bench seat, a basic instrument cluster, and a metal dashboard. Options included upgraded interior trim, a radio, and a heater. The trim level largely depended on the buyer’s preferences and budget. Custom Cab models offered more comfort and convenience features, such as improved upholstery and additional sound insulation. Buyers could also specify various bed configurations, including standard beds, stake beds, and platform beds, to suit their specific needs.
Chassis & Braking
The F-100 chassis was a traditional body-on-frame design, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, offering a relatively comfortable ride for a truck of its era. The rear suspension consisted of leaf springs, designed to handle heavier loads. Braking was accomplished via drum brakes on all four wheels. Steering was handled by a recirculating ball steering system, which provided adequate control but lacked the precision of more modern steering technologies. Power steering was an available option, making maneuvering the truck easier, especially at low speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-100 with the 352 V8 was generally well-received by buyers seeking a capable and reliable work truck. Critics praised the engine’s power and durability, but noted that the ride quality was somewhat firm. Compared to the smaller six-cylinder and 302 V8 engines, the 352 offered a significant performance boost, making it a popular choice for those who frequently hauled or towed. However, the larger 390 V8 provided even more power, appealing to buyers with heavier-duty needs. Fuel economy was typical for the era, averaging around 12-15 miles per gallon.
Legacy
The Ford F-100 with the 352 V8 has become a popular choice among classic truck enthusiasts. The FE engine family is known for its durability and relative simplicity, making these trucks relatively easy to maintain and repair. Parts availability is generally good, although some components can be difficult to find. Today, these trucks are often restored and modified, with many owners upgrading the engines, transmissions, and suspension systems to improve performance and comfort. The 1966-1968 F-100 remains a testament to Ford’s long-standing tradition of building tough and reliable trucks, and continues to be a valued part of automotive history.
