There is good news though, the supercharged 5.4 block is better than it has ever been. The 'new' 5.4 is an all aluminum block, and weighs 102 pounds less than the old 5.4. Also featured on the new block is Plasma Thermal Cylinder Liner Technology. This eliminates the iron cylinder liners, and creates less friction within the engine. This Plasma Lining Tech also reduces heat produced from friction, resulting in lower engine operating temperatures. A larger intercooler for the supercharger also helps keep this block a bit cooler.
The new engine also produces 550hp, and 510lbs of torque. Torque remains the same while it gains 10 horses due to a 32% less restrictive exhaust system. The new engine also takes an idea introduced on the new 5.0 engine, and uses an intergrated oil pan gasket/windage tray, which controlls oil flow into the primary pickup tube, and keeps oil from splashing up onto the crankshaft. The 2011 GT500 also increases gas mileage to 15cty/23hwy, which eliminates the gas guzzler tax.
The 2011 GT500 also comes with a performance package which includes 3.73 rearend gears, and even further upgraded suspension peices. This performance package also includes new, thinner stripes reminiscent of 1960's racing and the original Ford GT40. Ford has also increased airflow to keep the car glued to the ground, providing more downforce than the 2010 GT500, but in consequence also creates slightly more drag.
Ford has also teamed up with GoodYear to produce a high performance tire, which is the most advanced road tire available on the market today.
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