Positives:
* Powerful: It's a big-block V8, known for its substantial torque and horsepower, especially in its higher-performance versions. This made it popular in trucks and performance cars of its era.
* Durable: With proper maintenance, these engines can be quite long-lasting. Their robust construction contributes to their longevity.
* Tunable: The 390's design lends itself well to modifications and performance upgrades. Plenty of aftermarket parts are still available.
* Parts Availability (relatively): Compared to some other older engines, parts for the 390 are still relatively accessible, though some may require searching.
Negatives:
* Gas Guzzler: It's a large displacement engine, meaning it's inherently thirsty for fuel. This is a significant drawback by modern standards.
* Heavy: The engine's considerable weight can negatively impact vehicle handling and fuel economy.
* Maintenance Intensive: Like any older engine, regular maintenance is crucial to prevent costly repairs. This includes things like valve adjustments, which were more common in this era.
* Emissions: Older 390s don't meet modern emission standards and likely wouldn't pass modern inspections in many places.
In conclusion:
A Ford 390 can be a good engine *if* you understand its limitations and are prepared to deal with its demands. It's not a practical choice for daily driving in most situations due to its fuel consumption and maintenance needs. However, for classic car restoration, hot rodding, or specific applications where its power and torque are valued more than fuel economy, it can be a very satisfying engine. Its suitability entirely depends on the application and the owner's priorities.
