Ford trucks are known for their strength, efficiency, and reliability. In this guide, we will examine the features of three of Ford’s high-class engines – the 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, and the 5.0L V8.
The EcoBoost technology has the capability to increase an engine’s longevity and cut down its fuel consumption. Conversely, NO Ford fan is new to the raw strength and thumping sound of the 5.0 V8. For decades, drivers have enjoyed the V8’s reliable performance, speed, hauling towing ability.
Which one is the best among these three engine options? Let’s take a close look at them!
2.7L EcoBoost Vs. 3.5L EcoBoost Vs. 5.0L V8: Specification Chart
The table below provides an overview of the specs of the three engines. It’s a summary to compare their specific features to help you know which model fits your needs.
| 2.7 EcoBoost | 3.5 EcoBoost | 5.0L V8 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 325 HP | 375 HP | 395 HP |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft | 470 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Towing | 9,100 lbs | 13,200 lbs | 11,600 lbs |
| Longevity | ~230,000 miles | ~250,000 miles | ~200,000 miles |
| Available trim | XL, XLT, Lariat | Limited, Raptor | XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 20 MPG/ 26MPG | 18 MPG/ 25MPG | 17 MPG/ 23MPG |
| Bore size | 3.27'' (83.0mm) | 3.64'' (92.5mm) | 2011 - 2017: 3.63'' (92.2mm) 2018+: 3.66'' (93.0mm) |
| Stroke size | 3.27'' (83.0mm) | 3.41'' (86.6mm) | 3.65'' (92.7mm) |
| Firing order | 1-4-2-5-3-6 | 1-4-2-5-3-6 | 1-5-4-8-6-3-7-2 |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.0 qts (5.7L) | 6.2 qts (5.9L) | 2011 - 2017: 7.7 qts (7.2L) 2018+: 8.85qts (8.4L) |
| Oil change interval | 10,000 miles /15,000km/ 12 months | 9,000 miles /15,000km /12 months | 10,000 miles /15,000km/ 12 months |
2.7L EcoBoost Vs. 3.5L EcoBoost Vs. 5.0L V8: Detailed Comparison
It is natural to be confused while making a choice between the 5.0L V8, 2.5 EcoBoost, and 3.5 EcoBoost. They have been designed to withstand regular and extreme off-road driving situations. Let’s go into the details of the specifications of each engine according to the table above.
Engine Performance
Winner: 3.5L EcoBoost
It’s not so easy to pick a champion in this category. But we pick the 3.5L EcoBoost. This dual-injection gasoline engine can offer a seamless driving experience and produce fewer greenhouse gases. The 3.5L EcoBoost is reliable enough to power full-sized cars, supercars, pickup trucks, and utility vehicles.
The 5.0L V8 is not too far behind. This 8-cylinder naturally aspirated Aluminum block machine has maintained its solid reputation for decades. It has a higher horsepower rating while the EcoBoost 3.5L boasts of greater torque.
The 2.7L EcoBoost is also not bad at all. It still supplies enough torque and energy for several use cases. It also has a direct-injection design and twin-turbo system like the 3.5L EcoBoost. You can pair all three engines with four-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. With a few mods and tuners, you can squeeze more power out of any of the three engines.
Read more: 2.7L EcoBoost Engine Long-term Reliability
Towing
Winner: 3.5 EcoBoost
Credit: ford.com
The 3.5 EcoBoost has a towing capacity of 13,200 lbs. This beast also has the advantage of a larger displacement. Engine displacement is the concentration of fuel/air mixture that an engine can absorb during a full combustion cycle.
However, the V8 is close, with a towing capacity of 11,600lbs. This masterpiece also has an impressive payload capacity of about 3,2700 lbs.
The 2.7L EcoBoost can only tow heavy loads up to 9,100 lbs. To support any weight slightly higher on steep terrain, it will have to rely more on its turbo system. The result is the generation of a considerable amount of heat. However, the 2.7 and 3.5 EcoBoost have been designed to withstand sufficient tension while towing.
Let’s see the owners’ opinions about these engines’ towing capacity.
“I am a huge fan of the 2.7L, and it can tow anything you would reasonably put behind an F–150, although many are not reasonable on that regard. With that in mind, as others have mentioned the 2.7L is limited in how much Ford will let you option it out when tied to the 2.7L. […] I have towed some heavy trailers with my 2019, and it was fantastic. TFL did Ike Gauntlet runs with the 2.7L, and it performed better than the V8 counterparts from other brands. It’s an incredible engine.”
“Any of the 3 will get the job done. The 3.5 will tow a heavier travel trailer the easiest. Since you don’t know specifics now about a future travel trailer’s weight, the safest thing to do is err to buying the most capable truck, which is a 3.5 max tow. […] keep in mind I am usually a fairly conservative driver.”
Fuel Economy
Winner: 2.7 EcoBoost
Credit: ford.com
The 2.7 EcoBoost is arguably the winner in this category. It has an estimated fuel economy of 20 MPG and 26 MPG in the city and highway, respectively. This is because of its lower displacement and horsepower rating. In reverse, the 3.5 EcoBoost rates at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG in the highway. The 5.0 V8 engine has the lowest fuel economy rating among three with 17 MPG and 23 MPG in the city and highway, respectively.
Additionally, the rate of fuel consumption still depends on certain factors. The answer to the questions below influences your fuel economy.
- What do you do with your vehicle? Do you use it for daily commuting or heavy towing?
- How aggressive is your driving technique?
- Is your truck rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive? For example, 4WD Ford vehicles are known to have a lower MPG compared to 2WD variants.
Read more: 3.5L EcoBoost Lifespan: Is It A Good Engine?
Engine Longevity
Winner: 3.5L EcoBoost
The longevity of these three engines is subject to a tight debate. It is not easy to predict the exact lifespan of an engine. Although, these three Ford powerhouses have proven to be reliable without many issues.
With regular maintenance and careful driving, the F150 2.7 EcoBoost can cover 200,000 to 230,000 miles. The 3.5L EcoBoost should be able to reach a mileage of 250,000 miles. You need to use high-quality synthetic oil for both EcoBoost machines.
Regular lubrication will reduce the formation of carbon residue within their combustion system. You need to wash or replace the direct fuel injectors at regular intervals. The spark plugs and transmission fluid also need timely replacement.
As for the 5.0L V8, it should be able to hit a mileage of 200,000 miles. Note that poor driving technique, bulky off-road add-ons, and intensive engine modifications can cut down your engine’s lifespan.
Available Trim
Winner: 5.0L V8
Credit: ford.com
The 5.0L V8 is available on five trim levels – XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. As for the Ford 2.7L, EcoBoost, you can get it on the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The Robust 3.5L EcoBoost is only available on the Raptor and F150 limited edition. The 5.0L V8 wins in this category.
Credit: ford.com
Price
Winner: 2.7L EcoBoost
The 2.7L EcoBoost is the best choice if you want to save money. It will still deliver an awesome performance for the price. The 5.0L V8 costs an average of US$2000 while the 3.5L EcoBoost is priced at around US$1400.
Which One Is The Best?
2.7 EcoBoost vs. 3.5 EcoBoost
The 2.7L EcoBoost is the smaller of the two engines, but it still packs a serious punch. It’s capable of churning out an impressive 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5L EcoBoost, on the other hand, is the more powerful option. It produces a whopping 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
The 2.7L EcoBoost is the clear winner when it comes to fuel economy. It’s rated at 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The 3.5L EcoBoost isn’t far behind, with a rating of 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway.
So, which engine is right for you? It depends on your needs. If you need a powerful engine for towing or hauling, the 3.5 EcoBoost is the better choice. If you’re looking for better fuel economy and doesn’t need as much power, the 2.7 EcoBoost is a great option.
Read more: Best Replacement Engine for 5.4 Triton
2.7 EcoBoost vs 5.0 V8
The 2.7 EcoBoost is a four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The 5.0 V8 is a naturally aspirated engine that produces 395 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.
Moreover, the EcoBoost engine is more fuel-efficient, getting an estimated 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The 5.0 V8 gets an estimated 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway.
So, which engine is better? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a more powerful engine, then the 5.0 V8 is the better choice. Besides, if you’re looking for an engine that is more fuel-efficient, then the 2.7 EcoBoost is the better choice.
3.5 EcoBoost vs 5.0 V8
The 5.0 V8 is a much more powerful engine than the 3.5 EcoBoost, producing significantly more horsepower.
However, the 3.5 EcoBoost has some advantages over the 5.0 V8 as well. First of all, it gets better fuel economy thanks to its smaller displacement and turbochargers. It’s also a bit lighter than the 5.0 V8, which gives it slightly better handling. Finally, the 3.5 EcoBoost comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the 5.0 V8 is only available with rear-wheel drive.
Which engine is your best bet? If you want maximum power, the 5.0 V8 is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a balance of power and economy, the 3.5 EcoBoost is a great option.
Read more: Ford 5.4L vs 4.6L vs 5.0L Engine
Helpful resources:
- https://www.heuringford.com/research/f150-engines.htm
- https://www.imlaycityfordsales.com/research-ford-f-150-engine-options.html
- https://tuningpro.co/ford-2-7-vs-3-5-ecoboost-specs-performance-reliability/
- https://www.f150forum.com/f129/2-7-vs-3-5-vs-5-0-buy-502251/
- https://www.motorverso.com/3-5-ecoboost-vs-5-0/
