The quote I use came from Ford Racing, so it actuall is why they call it a "Modular Motor". I'll give you the whole quote so I don't leave anything out.
MODULAR V-8 ENGINES
4.6L SOHC, 4.6L DOHC, 5.4L SOHC
In 1991, Ford unleashed a new era of muscle, one that is propelling us into the future. The Modular
engine focuses on low friction, excellent sealing, and increased block stiffness. The design results in an
extremely smooth running engine using aluminum heads and having all accessories rigidly mounted to
the engine. Both the engine block and head are machined to close tolerances to produce a very precise
assembly. The head bolts of modular engines actually extend past the cylinder bores into the bearing
webs, eliminating bore distortion and providing a better head gasket seal. The sophisticated overhead
cam design uses roller finger followers to lower friction and increase the RPM potential of the engine.
On the bottom end, the deep skirt engine block and cross-bolted main caps contribute to a highly rigid
assembly. Two engine plants manufacture Modular engines; Romeo produces all passenger car versions
and Windsor produces the Modular Truck engines. Here’s a brief description of Modular V-8 engines.
4.6L SOHC
The 4.6L SOHC (2V) was first introduced in 1991. This engine is the basis for all modular engines
and is used in passenger car as well as the trucks. The block is cast iron with a nodular crankshaft,
while the heads are aluminum using an in-line valve design with 1 intake and 1 exhaust valve per
cylinder. All passenger cars have press fit piston pins, while all truck engines have full floating piston
pins to improve durability.
4.6L DOHC
The 4.6L DOHC (4V) was first introduced in the Mark VIII; however, in 1996 a similar version of
this engine found its calling the Mustang Cobra. The aluminum block and four valve head make for a
powerful combination producing 305 HP @ 7000 RPM. Internally, the 4 bolt, cross-bolted main bearing
caps provide the support necessary to easily handle the high RPM potential of the forged steel crankshaft.
This engine uses hypereutectic pistons with full floating piston pins and upgraded connecting rod
assemblies to improve durability.
5.4L SOHC
The 5.4L SOHC (2V) “Triton” engine released in trucks for 1997 is producing favorable reactions.
This engine has a cast iron block, forged steel crankshaft, full floating piston pins and special 6000 RPM
connecting rods. It is the 5.8L “pushrod engine” replacement.
And this came directly from Ford Racing.com
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