Did Chrysler ever make a 440 Hemi?
Yes, Chrysler did produce a 440 cubic inch (7.2 liter) Hemi engine, though it was not technically a "Hemi" design. The 440 engine was a large-displacement V8 that was a mainstay of Chrysler's high-performance lineup in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The Chrysler 440 Engine
The Chrysler 440 engine was first introduced in 1966 as a high-performance option for Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth models. It was a big-block V8 engine that displaced 440 cubic inches (7.2 liters) and produced impressive power and torque numbers for the era.
While the 440 engine shared some design elements with Chrysler's legendary Hemi V8 engines, it was not a true Hemi design. The 440 had a conventional "wedge" combustion chamber shape, rather than the hemispherical Hemi design.
Performance and Applications
In its highest-performance variants, the 440 engine could produce over 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. It was available as an option on a wide range of Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth models, including the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Plymouth 'Cuda.p>
The 440 engine was known for its impressive low-end torque and high-rpm power delivery, making it a popular choice for muscle car enthusiasts in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was often paired with high-performance transmissions and rear axle ratios to take full advantage of the engine's capabilities.
The End of the 440 Era
Production of the 440 engine was phased out in the mid-1970s as stricter emissions regulations and the oil crisis led to a decline in demand for large-displacement, high-performance engines. Chrysler's focus shifted to more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly powertrains, marking the end of the 440's reign as a muscle car icon.
While the 440 engine was not a true Hemi design, it remains an important part of Chrysler's performance heritage and is still highly sought after by classic car enthusiasts today.
