If you’re searching for a Ford Barra engine for sale, you already know its legendary reputation. Known for durability, smooth performance, and incredible tuning potential, the Barra engine has become a favorite among car enthusiasts, mechanics, and tuners, especially those working with high-performance builds.
Whether you’re rebuilding a Ford Falcon, upgrading your turbo setup, or starting a project car, finding the right Ford Barra engine at a fair price is key. Here’s everything you need to know before making your purchase.
What Is a Ford Barra Engine?
The Ford Barra engine is a line of inline 6-cylinder engines produced by Ford Australia from 2002 to 2016. The name “Barra” is short for Barramundi, a popular Australian fish, but in the auto world, it means power, reliability, and easy boostability.
It was used in several Australian Ford vehicles, including:
- Ford Falcon BA, BF, FG series
- Ford Territory
The Barra comes in naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions, with the Barra 240T, 270T, and 310T being especially sought-after in the tuning world.
Why Buy a Ford Barra Engine?
Here’s why the Barra is so popular—even outside Australia:
✅ Proven Performance
With stock internals handling over 600 horsepower (with the right tuning), the Barra is known for being “overbuilt” from the factory.
✅ Affordable Power
Compared to other performance engines like the 2JZ or LS series, the Barra offers similar power potential—often at a lower cost.
✅ Strong Block
Cast iron blocks with forged crankshafts in many models make these engines great for forced induction setups.
✅ Availability of Parts
Despite production ending in 2016, aftermarket support remains strong. Performance parts, rebuild kits, and accessories are easy to find.
✅ Swappable
Barra engines are being swapped into Mustangs, Nissan Silvias, BMWs, and even old pickups—thanks to adapter kits now available globally.
Types of Ford Barra Engines for Sale
When looking for a Ford Barra engine for sale, here are the main variants you might find:
Engine Code | Description | HP Output (approx.) |
---|---|---|
Barra 182 | Naturally aspirated (NA) BA Falcon | 240 HP |
Barra 190 | Improved NA (BF Falcon) | 255 HP |
Barra 240T | Turbocharged BA XR6 Turbo | 322 HP |
Barra 270T | Turbocharged BF XR6 Turbo | 362 HP |
Barra 310T | FG XR6 Turbo (final version) | 416 HP |
Prices vary based on condition, mileage, and whether the engine is complete with wiring harness, ECU, and turbo setup.
Where to Find a Ford Barra Engine for Sale
🔍 Online Auto Marketplaces
- eBay Motors
- Gumtree (AU)
- Facebook Marketplace
- Marketplace sites focused on car parts (e.g., JDM Engine Zone)
🧰 Engine Importers & Suppliers
Many U.S., UK, and NZ importers now specialize in sourcing and shipping Barra engines from Australia. Ask about:
- Shipping options
- Warranty or return policies
- Whether they include ECU, loom, sensors
🚗 Local Wreckers & Auto Salvage Yards
If you’re in Australia or New Zealand, local wreckers are still the most common source of affordable Barra engines.
What to Check Before Buying
Before buying a used Ford Barra engine for sale, inspect or ask about:
- Compression test results
- Oil leaks or overheating history
- Turbo condition (for turbo models)
- Mileage and service records
- Wiring harness and ECU inclusion
- Crankshaft and cylinder wall wear
If you’re planning a performance build, you might want a low-mileage engine, or be prepared to rebuild.
Common Uses for Barra Engine Swaps
- Drift Cars – Popular in Nissan S-chassis and BMW swaps
- Muscle Cars – Classic Ford Mustangs and Holdens
- Off-Road Builds – Toyota Hilux, Patrol, or Land Cruiser projects
- Daily Drivers – For those upgrading from stock 4/6-cylinder engines
The Barra’s balance of power and reliability makes it an attractive option for diverse automotive projects.
Final Thoughts
Finding a Ford Barra engine for sale is like discovering hidden gold, especially for performance lovers who want reliable power on a budget. Whether you’re doing a full swap, building a turbo beast, or restoring a classic Ford, the Barra is a solid engine that delivers big.
Just make sure you buy from a trusted seller, get the right components with it, and plan your build around your goals, because once you install a Barra, you’re not going back.