I haven't done really any homework on the differences between the 2.7 and 3.5. I've always assumed they use the same block at least. And with the added displacement, I figure the turbos are probably bigger on the 3.5's. Given that Ford uses the 3.5 in Raptors and GT's, logic would tend to show (in my brain anyway) that the 3.5 is in a better position to handle more abuse one way or another. Therefore, it surprises me any time someone mentions the 2.7 being a tank. One of my tuners even said he's never seen one go nuclear due to modding. Wish I could play with mine, but since it's technically a company vehicle, I'm not even allowed to change the oil myself.