The Boss 494 is a legendary big-block V8 racing engine developed by Ford in the late 1960s and early 1970s for use in high-performance racing applications, including Can-Am racing. Based on the Boss 429 architecture, the 494 cubic-inch (8.1L) engine was designed to deliver massive horsepower and torque. It featured high-flow aluminum heads, hemispherical combustion chambers, and a robust bottom end to handle extreme power outputs. The Boss 494 became known for its dominance on the track, representing Ford’s pursuit of raw performance and innovation in motorsports.