To reduce weight over their predecessors, the 385 engines utilized thinwall casting methods and a skirtless block.

For 1979, the engine was rebranded in metric, as 6.1 L.[1] After 1991 production, the 370 was discontinued, with the 429 replacing it in all truck applications.

It was also available in high performance Cobra Jet versions for street use and police interceptors.

Featuring forged notched pistons[clarification needed] the engine was rated at 370 hp (gross).

When fitted with a "shaker" hood scoop, a 429 CJ-Ram Air equipped vehicle received a 3.50:1 rear axle.

The Super Cobra Jet (429SCJ) was fitted with a Holley 780 cu ft/min (22 m3/min) Vac-Secondaries square-bore 4-bbl carburetor, larger mechanical camshaft, a four-bolt main block, forged pistons, single valve relief,[4] forged rods, and Brinell tested cast iron crankshaft.

The engine output was increased to 375 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, matched with a 3.91:1 or 4.30:1 rear axle ratio.

In 1972 SAE net horsepower, which accounted for real world power losses created by engine accessories and the exhaust system, was adopted as a standard in North America, resulting in a significant decrease in horsepower ratings of all engines.

In addition, a reduction in the 460 compression ratio (to 8.5:1) and modification of camshaft timing to allow the engine to comply with Federally mandated exhaust emissions standards, caused the rated output to plunge to 212 hp (158 kW); output continued to change nearly annually thereafter to improve fuel economy and emissions performance in line with increasingly stringent Federal requirements, dropping as low as 197 hp (147 kW) in 1977.

Coinciding with their eventual downsizing, full-sized Ford and Lincoln-Mercury cars (including the Continental Mark V) last used the 460 for the 1978 model year.

Applications: A factory crate engine of 514 cu in was available from Ford from the mid 1990s until 2006.