Ford 289 Engine for Sale: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Are you looking for a Ford 289 engine for sale? Whether you’re restoring a classic Mustang, building a hot rod, or just want a high-revving small-block V8 under your hood, the legendary Ford 289 engine is a top choice. This iconic powerplant helped define Ford’s muscle car era and continues to attract enthusiasts, collectors, and performance builders today.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before buying a Ford 289 engine, including its specs, history, where to find it, pricing trends, and key things to watch out for when purchasing.

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🔧 What Is the Ford 289 Engine?

The Ford 289 cubic inch V8 engine was part of Ford’s Windsor small-block engine family. Introduced in 1963, the 289 was designed for performance, reliability, and flexibility. It played a pivotal role in powering some of Ford’s most iconic vehicles.

✅ Key Features:

• Displacement: 289 cubic inches (4.7 liters)

• Bore x Stroke: 4.00″ x 2.87″

• Compression Ratios: 8.7:1 to 10.5:1 (depending on the version)

• Horsepower: Ranges from 195 HP to 271 HP

• Fuel Delivery: Carbureted (2-barrel or 4-barrel)

• Firing Order: 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8

📆 Years Produced:

• 1963–1968

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🚘 Iconic Cars That Used the 289 Engine

The 289 engine powered many classic Ford vehicles, including:

• 1964½–1968 Ford Mustang

• 1963–1967 Ford Fairlane

• 1963–1968 Ford Falcon

• 1965–1967 Shelby GT350

• 1963–1967 Mercury Comet

• 1964–1966 AC Cobra 289

Among these, the 289 HiPo (High Performance) version became legendary for its use in the Shelby GT350 Mustang, producing 271 horsepower and offering race-ready performance in a street-legal car.

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🔎 Types of Ford 289 Engines Available for Sale

If you’re searching for a Ford 289 engine for sale, it’s crucial to understand the different configurations available. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Stock 2-Barrel (C-Code)

• Common in base Mustangs and Falcons.

• Around 195 HP.

• Good for restorations or daily drivers.

2. Stock 4-Barrel (A-Code)

• Found in higher-trim Mustangs and performance models.

• Produces 225 HP.

• Balanced performance and drivability.

3. High Performance 289 (K-Code)

• 271 HP, solid lifter cam, forged pistons, and dual point ignition.

• Rarest and most expensive version.

• Desirable for racing and classic car restoration.

4. Rebuilt or Remanufactured Engines

• Modern rebuilds with improved internals.

• Often sold with warranties.

• Great for those who want new reliability with old-school character.

5. Performance-Cranked Engines

• Modified with aftermarket heads, cams, and intakes.

• Can reach over 400 HP.

• Ideal for hot rods and custom builds.

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🛠️ Where to Find a Ford 289 Engine for Sale

There are many reputable sources to find a 289 engine. Depending on your budget and goals, you may prefer a used, rebuilt, or crate engine.

1. Online Marketplaces

• eBay Motors – Offers everything from short blocks to fully assembled engines.

• Facebook Marketplace – Great for finding local deals.

• Craigslist – A hit-or-miss platform, but deals exist.

2. Classic Car Forums

• Vintage Mustang Forums

• Ford Muscle Forums

• FordTrucks.com

These communities often have classified sections or knowledgeable users selling engines.

3. Engine Rebuilders and Retailers

• JEGS Performance

• Summit Racing

• ATK High Performance Engines

• Blueprint Engines

• Jasper Engines & Transmissions

These companies offer remanufactured or performance crate engines with warranties, which is a safer bet than buying unknown used motors.

4. Junkyards and Salvage Yards

• Look for 1960s Mustangs, Fairlanes, or Falcons.

• You might score an original engine cheap, but condition is always a gamble.

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💲 How Much Does a Ford 289 Engine Cost?

Prices vary significantly depending on the condition, rarity, and upgrades. Here’s a general breakdown:

Pro Tip: K-Code engines with matching numbers (VIN-stamped block) can command premium prices, especially from collectors.

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🧰 What to Look for When Buying a 289 Engine

Before making a purchase, inspect the engine’s condition and documentation to ensure you’re getting value for your money.

✅ Check These Essentials:

• Casting Numbers & Date Codes: Ensure authenticity.

• VIN Stamping (K-Code engines): Confirms originality.

• Compression Test: Validates cylinder integrity.

• Crankshaft Endplay: Reveals wear in main bearings.

• Oil Condition: Milky or dirty oil can signal internal issues.

• Visual Inspection: Look for cracks, corrosion, or excessive wear.

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🏁 Why Choose a Ford 289 Engine?

Still wondering if the 289 is the right choice? Here are the main reasons enthusiasts keep coming back to it.

1. Proven Performance

Even in stock form, the 289 has a lively throttle response, smooth power band, and excellent rev potential.

2. Aftermarket Support

With hundreds of companies making heads, cams, pistons, intakes, and more, modifying a 289 is easy and well-documented.

3. Lightweight Design

The small-block Windsor is relatively light, making it ideal for balance in vintage muscle cars and custom builds.

4. Historical Value

Owning a genuine 289, especially a HiPo variant, connects you with the golden age of American muscle.

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🔄 Alternatives to the Ford 289 Engine

If you’re open to alternatives, here are a few engines worth considering:

However, if you’re building a classic Mustang, sticking with a 289 V8 keeps your build historically accurate and collectible.

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🔧 Tips for Installing a 289 Engine

Here’s what to keep in mind during installation:

✅ Mounting:

• Use correct engine mounts (289-specific).

• Verify bellhousing bolt pattern compatibility.

✅ Transmission:

• Works with both manual and automatic (C4, Toploader, T5).

• Check flexplate/flywheel specs.

✅ Cooling:

• A 2- or 3-core aluminum radiator is recommended.

• Use high-flow water pump for performance builds.

✅ Fuel & Ignition:

• Upgrade to electronic ignition for reliability.

• Tune your carburetor (Holley or Edelbrock recommended).

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📦 Top Ford 289 Crate Engines for Sale (2025 Picks)

If you’re going with a crate engine, here are some great choices available this year:

1. Blueprint Engines Ford 289 Crate Engine

• 302 block stroked to 289 specs

• 310 HP

• Roller cam and aluminum heads

• Around $5,000

2. ATK High Performance HP89C

• Remanufactured 289

• 300 HP

• Hydraulic cam, upgraded pistons

• $4,000 – $4,800

3. Summit Racing Crate 289 Build

• Custom-configured builds

• Long block or turnkey

• Price varies by configuration

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📢 SEO Keywords to Consider

If you’re listing or searching for a Ford 289 engine for sale online, consider these long-tail SEO keywords to help narrow results:

• “Ford 289 crate engine for sale”

• “Rebuilt Ford 289 V8 for Mustang”

• “Ford 289 HiPo engine buy online”

• “Ford 289 engine block casting numbers”

• “289 Ford V8 remanufactured with warranty”

• “Where to buy Ford 289 K-Code engine”