The 5.0 Ford 302 is the successor to the Ford 289. Ford created the 302 by increasing the stroke of the engine from 2.87 to 3.0–all while keeping the 4.0 inch bore.
The initial versions used a two-barrel carburetor and produced around 220 horsepower. An optional version with a four-barrel carburetor produced 230 horsepower.
Early in the engine’s run, high-performance options were included as an option in the Shelby GT350.
Throughout the 70s, Ford adapted the 302 to more restrictive emissions standards. This led to subsequent losses of power throughout the era.
The 302 remained in production until the 1980s, where it was adapted to new fuel injection methods.