Longest lasting V-8 for the Cobra

Chrisj357 said:

Perfect, I may not last 20 years. lol

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LOL, me either, 72 and counting.

Given their tighter internal tolerances, the Ford modular engines are well known for their longevity when properly cared for. 200K miles plus is not uncommon.
The 5 liter Coyote is a 302, just a completely different engine from the pushrod engines of the early days.
Ultimately, my concern with a used engine would be the history of the block selected. If going pushrod, I would want to either buy a new block as in Blue Print or Dart. If not new, then a complete tear down and examination of the block and rotating assembly would be in order. If you want it to last, you will need to know that what you are starting with is sound.

Chrisj357 said:

Perfect, I may not last 20 years. lol

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Man is that a terrible thought. But even a crusty junkyard 302 with zero work done to it will be more fun than a car that doesnt drive. If you are trying to make it go on small monies. 1996 gt40 explorer motor with a cam. Keep it EFI if you want. If you don't run the rpm air gap.

I have downright molested junkyard 302s and rebuilding a decent motor isn't a necessity unless you want to stop it from leaking. The parts are readily available. Don't put cork anyplace and it will be fine.

Phil