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What's Unique about Coyote Engines?



Coyote Engine by Fast Forward Race Engines

The Coyote engine has become a standout amongst modern V8 powerplants since its debut in 2011. With its high performance, innovative technology, and durability, the Coyote has found a place in both race cars and pickup trucks. But what exactly makes the Coyote engine so unique? Let’s get into it.


1. Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) Design

One of the most defining features of the Coyote engine is its Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration. While many V8 engines rely on a simpler pushrod design, the Coyote stands out with its more complex DOHC system. The dual cams allow for independent control of intake and exhaust valves, which significantly improves airflow at higher engine speeds.


  • Advantages of DOHC: The Coyote's DOHC setup increases its ability to rev higher than traditional pushrod V8s, which allows for greater high-RPM performance. The ability to adjust valve timing independently also contributes to better fuel efficiency and emissions without sacrificing power.


2. Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT)

Another unique feature that sets the Coyote apart is Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT), which allows the camshaft timing for both the intake and exhaust valves to be adjusted independently in real-time, based on driving conditions. This allows for performance optimization and efficiency depending on whether you're cruising on the highway or gunning it on the track.


  • Performance Benefits: Ti-VCT improves throttle response and torque at low RPMs while maximizing power output at higher RPMs. This creates a more flexible engine that delivers strong low-end torque without sacrificing high-RPM horsepower.

  • Fuel Efficiency: This feature plays a crucial role in maintaining fuel efficiency, an area where many high-performance V8s fall short. The ability to adjust valve timing improves combustion efficiency, making the engine both powerful and fuel-efficient.


3. High-Flow Aluminum Cylinder Heads

The Coyote engine’s aluminum cylinder heads are designed for optimal airflow, another key factor that makes it stand out in the crowded V8 market. The heads were developed to allow for more efficient air intake and exhaust flow, which means better combustion and more power. The heads also feature large intake and exhaust valves, allowing the engine to "breathe" better, particularly at high RPMs.


  • Performance Impact: These high-flow cylinder heads contribute to the Coyote's ability to rev well past the 8,000 RPM range, a feat that many pushrod V8s can't match. This high-RPM capability is one of the reasons why the Coyote engine is favored by performance enthusiasts.


4. Lightweight Design and Durability

Despite being a high-performance V8, the Coyote engine is relatively lightweight, especially compared to other V8 engines of similar size and power. Weighing in at approximately 430 pounds, the Coyote's aluminum block and heads reduce the overall vehicle weight, contributing to better handling and improved acceleration.


  • Material Composition: The engine block is made from aluminum with iron sleeves, which strikes a balance between weight savings and durability. This material choice allows the Coyote engine to be both lightweight and resilient.

  • Durability: The Coyote engine is also known for its long lifespan, with many reports of well over 200,000 miles driven with proper maintenance. This is partly due to high-quality materials and an advanced design of the oiling system and cooling pathways.


5. Dual-Fuel Injection System (Third Generation)

With the release of the third-generation Coyote engine in 2018, an advanced dual-fuel injection system was introduced, combining both direct and port fuel injection. This system is designed to improve fuel atomization and optimize combustion across a wide range of driving conditions.


  • Port Fuel Injection (PFI): Port fuel injection delivers fuel to the intake port, just before the intake valve, helping to mix fuel with air before it enters the combustion chamber. This improves throttle response and low-end torque, especially at lower engine speeds. 

  • Direct Fuel Injection (DI): Direct injection sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for more precise control over the fuel-air mixture, which is beneficial at high RPMs and under heavy loads. DI also improves efficiency by reducing wasted fuel.

  • Combined Benefits: By utilizing both PFI and DI, the third-gen Coyote engine achieves a more efficient burn, increases power output, and reduces emissions. In it’s stock form, this dual-injection system helps the Coyote engine produce 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. 


6. High Compression Ratio

The third-generation Coyote engine also features a high compression ratio of 12:1. A higher compression ratio means that the engine can extract more energy from each combustion cycle, resulting in better efficiency and power.


  • Performance Impact: This higher compression ratio is a key reason why the third-gen Coyote produces such impressive horsepower and torque numbers without the need for forced induction. Premium fuel recommended.


7. Modular and Swap-Friendly

One of the most appealing aspects of the Coyote engine is its modularity and adaptability, making it a favorite for engine swaps. The Coyote engine shares a common architecture with Ford’s Modular engine family, which makes it relatively easy to swap into a wide variety of vehicles, including older Mustangs, pickup trucks, and non-Ford vehicles.


  • Aftermarket Support: There is an extensive range of aftermarket parts available for the Coyote engine, from superchargers and turbo kits to camshafts and exhaust systems. The Coyote platform offers a versatile foundation for modification.

  • Coyote Swaps: Due to its compact design and high power output, the Coyote engine has become a popular choice for engine swaps – without extensive modification needed.


8. Performance and Tuning Potential

The Coyote engine's robust construction and advanced technology make it an ideal platform for performance upgrades and tuning. Whether you're aiming for naturally aspirated power or adding forced induction, the Coyote has the potential to handle a wide range of modifications.


  • Forced Induction: The engine’s sturdy internals and efficient cooling systems make it well-suited for superchargers and turbochargers. Many tuners have successfully pushed the Coyote engine well beyond 700 horsepower with the right combination of upgrades and tuning.

  • High RPM Capability: The Coyote engine can comfortably rev past 8,000 RPM; it is one of the few modern V8s that combine high-RPM performance and significant low-end torque.



The Coyote engine is unique in its ability to balance power, efficiency, and durability. With its DOHC design, Ti-VCT, high-flow cylinder heads, and dual-fuel injection system, the Coyote offers a level of versatility that is hard to match in the world of V8 engines. Whether you're looking for a powerful stock engine, a platform for performance upgrades, or an engine swap option, the Coyote delivers on all fronts.


If you want a high-revving, reliable engine with a wealth of aftermarket support, a FFRE Coyote stands out as one of the best V8s ever made. Submit a Contact Form for more information.


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