* Cylinder Block: The main housing for the engine, containing the cylinders where combustion occurs.
* Cylinder Head(s): Located on top of the block, containing the valves, combustion chambers, and spark plugs. V6 and V8 Mustangs will have multiple cylinder heads.
* Pistons: Move up and down inside the cylinders, driven by the force of the expanding gases from combustion.
* Connecting Rods: Connect the pistons to the crankshaft.
* Crankshaft: Rotates to convert the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotational power.
* Camshaft(s): Controls the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves.
* Valves: Control the flow of air and fuel into the cylinders and exhaust gases out.
* Spark Plugs: Ignite the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders.
* Fuel Injectors: Deliver precisely measured amounts of fuel into the cylinders.
* Intake Manifold: Distributes air to the cylinders.
* Exhaust Manifold: Collects exhaust gases from the cylinders.
* Timing Chain or Belt: Synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s).
* Oil Pump: Circulates lubricating oil throughout the engine.
* Water Pump: Circulates coolant to keep the engine from overheating.
* Alternator: Generates electricity to power the car's electrical systems.
* Starter Motor: Starts the engine.
* Sensors: Various sensors monitor engine conditions and send data to the engine control unit (ECU).
* Engine Control Unit (ECU): A computer that controls and monitors various aspects of the engine's operation.
Different Mustang generations and engine options (e.g., EcoBoost 4-cylinder, V6, Coyote V8, etc.) will have variations in these components, their size, materials, and design. For example, a modern EcoBoost engine will have a turbocharger, which is absent in older naturally aspirated engines.
