Did Dodge make a 400 engine?
Yes. Dodge did produce a 400 cubic inch V8, as part of Chrysler’s RB big-block family, and it was used in several late-1960s to early-1970s Mopar models.
A brief history of the 400 cubic inch V8
The 400 emerged within Chrysler’s RB big-block lineup as a larger-displacement option alongside the familiar 383 and 426 Hemi. It was designed to deliver more torque for heavy sedans and performance-oriented Mopars alike, while sharing core components with other RB engines for easier production and maintenance.
Over its run, the 400 appeared in a range of Dodge and Plymouth models during the peak years of American horsepower, before shifting away in the face of tightening emissions rules and changing consumer preferences in the early 1970s.
Here are the key milestones and characteristics that define the Mopar 400:
- Displacement: 400 cubic inches (approximately 6.6 liters).
- Engine family: Chrysler RB big-block, sharing architecture with other large-displacement Mopar V8s.
- Carburetion and tuning: powered by varying 2- or 4-barrel carburetors and different compression setups across model years.
- Strategic use: offered in Dodge full-size cars and select performance-oriented packages during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- Legacy: considered a robust alternative to the more famous 426 Hemi and 440s, favored by some enthusiasts for its balance of torque and drivability.
In summary, the 400 was a legitimate Mopar big-block option that filled a niche between the smaller 383 and the top-tier Hemi offerings, contributing to Mopar’s diverse performance lineup during an era defined by horsepower wars and evolving emissions standards.
Engine specs and variants
The 400 belonged to the RB big-block family and saw variations in carburetion and compression depending on year and application. Its core identity is as a large-offset V8 designed for brute torque and broad usability across multiple Dodge and Plymouth models.
- Core identity: big-block 400 cubic inches within the RB family.
- Carburetion: options ranged from 2-barrel to 4-barrel setups, with correspondingly different power profiles.
- Applications: used across a range of Mopar vehicles in the late 1960s and early 1970s, especially in heavier or performance-oriented configurations.
- Power characteristics: engine output varied by year, emissions controls, and exhaust/intake setup, so exact horsepower and torque depend on the specific build.
Because exact specifications changed with model year and trim, it’s best to refer to the specific vehicle’s build sheet or casting codes for precise numbers.
How to identify a Dodge 400 engine
If you’re examining a Mopar and want to confirm a 400 cubic inch engine, look for a combination of identifying marks and documentation. Engine codes, casting numbers, and the car’s VIN or fender tag can help verify the displacement and original configuration. When in doubt, cross-check these details with a reputable Mopar reference guide or a specialist shop.
- Check the engine pad: look for an engine code and displacement stamp that indicates “400” or a corresponding RB big-block designation.
- Inspect casting numbers: head and block numbers can corroborate the 400 displacement within the RB family.
- Review the car’s documentation: the build sheet, window sticker, or fender tag often lists the engine option.
Consulting a Mopar-focused archive, parts catalog, or knowledgeable enthusiast group can help confirm the exact year and configuration for a given vehicle.
Notable notes for collectors and enthusiasts
Context in the Mopar halo era
The Mopar 400 sits in a broader era of big-block adoption, alongside the 383, 426 Hemi, and 440, when manufacturers pursued greater displacement and torque. While it didn’t achieve the same iconic status as the 426 Hemi, the 400 remains a valued option for collectors who prize a blend of raw torque and practical driveability in period Mopars.
Summary
In short, Dodge did indeed build a 400 cubic-inch engine as part of Chrysler’s RB big-block family. It served as a larger, versatile option during the late 1960s and early 1970s, used in a variety of Mopar models and tuned for different applications. For collectors, the 400 represents a meaningful chapter in the era of big-block Mopar performance, distinct from the more famous Hemi and other high-output V8s.
Did Mopar make a 400 engine?
Introduced in 1972, the Chrysler 400 V8 featured wedge-shaped cylinder heads, a single camshaft, and a pushrod-operated valvetrain. With a relatively low 8.2:1 compression ratio, the final 400 V8 version produced a mere 195 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque.
Was the 440 faster than the 426 Hemi?
The **440 Six-Pack was often faster in stock form, particularly in the quarter mile, but the 426 Hemi had a higher potential for power when modified. Stock 440 Six-Packs generally had better out-of-the-box performance due to how they were tuned and how they hooked up from the line, while the Hemi was a detuned race engine that could be built to produce significantly more power than the 440 with modifications.
You can watch this video to learn about the history and impact of the 426 Hemi: 1mIts Just Cars!YouTube · Jul 31, 2025
| Feature | 440 Six-Pack | 426 Hemi |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Performance | Often faster in stock form (e.g., quarter-mile drag racing). | Slower in stock form compared to the 440 Six-Pack. |
| Power Potential | Lower power potential than the 426 Hemi when both are modified. | Higher power potential when modified, especially with race-spec builds. |
| Factory Advantage | Lower factory-rated horsepower but with better street-tuned performance. | Higher factory-rated horsepower but often struggled with traction in stock form. |
| Engine Design | Wedge head engine. | Hemispherical head engine with larger ports and valves. |
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How much horsepower does a 1977 Dodge 400 have?
1977 Dodge Royal Monaco Brougham V-8 400 c.i. 190 h.p. automatic 3 speed.
Is there a 400 big block?
Yes, a "400" engine is often considered a big block, but it depends on the manufacturer, as some had a 400 cubic inch big block (like Mopar and Buick), while others had a 400 cubic inch small block or a similar engine that was larger than a small block but not a traditional big block (like Ford's 400, sometimes called a "medium block"). The distinction is based on the physical dimensions of the engine block, not just the cubic inch displacement.
Examples of 400 "big block" engines
- Mopar: The 400 cubic inch engine was a member of the B-series big block engine family, replacing the 383 in 1972.
- Buick: The 400 cubic inch engine was a part of Buick's big-block engine lineup and was found in models from 1967–1969.
Examples of 400 engines that are not considered big blocks
- Ford: The 400 cubic inch engine is a unique case. It is physically larger than a small block, but smaller and lighter than Ford's larger 429 and 460 engines. It is sometimes called a "medium block".
- Chevrolet: While Chevrolet had big blocks like the 396, 402, 409, and 427, the 400 was not produced as a big block.
