Ford Lightning Engine

The SVT engineering group's diligent effort of producing high-quality sport cars made it possible for them to achieve increases in its horsepower speed. They enlarged the air inlet system for better engine breathing, improved intercooler efficiency, and redesigned the lower intake manifold to improve airflow. This is manifested in the 2001 SVT Lightning's SOHC 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine as it develops 380 horsepower at 4,750 rpm, up 20 horsepower from the 2000 model.

Torque output is increased by 10 foot-pounds. Another notable additional performance achievement increases with a new rear axle ratio, with "shorter" 3.73:1 crown and pinion gear set instead of the previous 3.55:1 ratio. This improves off-the-line performance and due to the higher driveline loads and rotational speeds, a new 4.5-inch aluminum drive shaft has replaced the previous 3.5-inch steel unit.