Don't want to get into a pissing contest here, but there is a reason that Chevrolet engines are in everything. They're available, they're reliable, they're powerful, they have the biggest aftermarket available in automotive history. That is assuming we're talking about the Gen I, Gen II, and Gen III V8 engines. No other auto maker's V8's (pre 1982) can come close to a good old 350 or 400 small block. If we're talking about EFI motors then show me something that is comparable to an LS1 or even late model Gen III engines like the 4.8 or 5.3 V8's. Nothing compares in power, reliability, or availability.

I Just had to throw that out there. Carry on.

 

281 = 4.6
289 = 4.7

 

I own 3 Ford flathead V8's. They are a dime a dozen if you know where to look. I'm using one of them in a hot rod project I've been working on. BTW, flat heads aren't that super, theyre kind of a ***** to work on and good luck finding parts for them. The only reason I'm using one is to keep my rod period-correct.

4.9L I6's aren't the best for MPG and power. They're great engines, and if I bought another mid 90's ford truck I'd find a 4.9/manual trans combo. My father's and many other trucks of that combo only get around 17mpg though, so they're not gas misers by any means.

The best motor for mileage and power is probably the 5.9L Cummins (i prefer the 12v). Yeah its a diesel, but I know guys who are getting low 20's for mileage and are still using their trucks like their meant to be used. Can you say 350hp and 700ft lbs of tq with minimal mods? I'll take 2 please.

 

X ten million. love those 12 valve cummins

 

It's too bad during the last couple years of the Cherokee run that the dorks at Chrysler didn't put in the small diesel in that eventually wound up in the Liberty. Heard those mills were pretty rugged little beasts, and good MPG to boot.