Did Ford make a small block 427?
The Ford 427 engine is often a topic of fascination among car enthusiasts and collectors. Known for its power and performance, the 427 has a storied history in the automotive world. However, the question arises: did Ford ever produce a small block version of the 427? In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding the Ford 427 engine and clarify its classification.
Understanding the Ford 427 Engine
The Ford 427 engine was introduced in the early 1960s and is classified as a big block engine. It was designed primarily for high-performance applications, including racing and muscle cars. The 427 cubic inch engine was known for its impressive horsepower and torque, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
Big Block vs. Small Block
To understand why the 427 is not considered a small block, it's essential to differentiate between big block and small block engines:
- Big Block Engines: Typically have larger displacement and physical dimensions. They are designed for high power outputs and are often used in performance and heavy-duty applications.
- Small Block Engines: Generally have smaller displacement and are more compact. They are known for their versatility and efficiency, often used in a wide range of vehicles.
Ford's Engine Lineup
Ford's engine lineup includes several small block engines, such as the 289 and 302. However, the 427 was specifically engineered as a big block engine. It featured a larger bore and stroke compared to small block variants, which contributed to its higher performance capabilities.
Conclusion
In summary, Ford did not produce a small block version of the 427 engine. The 427 remains a significant part of Ford's big block engine legacy, celebrated for its power and performance in various racing and muscle car applications. Understanding the distinctions between engine types helps clarify the unique place the 427 holds in automotive history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Ford make a 427 CI engine?
The engine was produced in 427 and 428 cu in high-performance versions, and famously powered Ford GT40 MkIIs to endurance racing domination in the 24 hours of Le Mans during the mid-1960s.
What is the difference between a 406 and a 427 Ford?
Though mid-year 406s and all 427s were cross-bolted main blocks, both were different castings entirely. In fact, the 427 block is a completely different animal because it sports huge 4.23-inch bores, unlike any of its FE siblings, using the 390 and 406's 3.78-inch stroke.
How much horsepower can you get out of a 427 small-block?
After dialing everything in, the 427-inch small-block spit out a best pull of 656 hp at 6,700 rpm and 567 lb-ft of torque at 5,100 rpm. The torque curve was long and flat and the hp was still slightly climbing when the pull ended at 6,700 rpm.
Is there a 427 small-block?
Therefore your answer is: A Chevrolet 427 can be had in either Big Block or Small Block configurations.
Why was the Ford 427 banned from NASCAR?
The ban was a significant blow to Ford. Especially after they had invested. So much time and money into developing the engine with hopes of competing against Chrysler's Hemi and NASCAR.
How much HP does a 427 have?
Ford's 427 SOHC was rated at 616 hp with a single 4V carburetor, and 657 hp with dual quads. Chevrolet had a variety of 427s, also with various horsepower ratings of 390 hp, 400 hp, 425 hp, 430 hp, and 435 hp.
What is the smallest small-block engine?
The smallest small-block Chevy ever built by the factory was ironically not the original '55 265. The hysteria of the '70s gas crisis motivated Chevrolet to build a mini-Mouse that measured 262 cubic inches with a tiny, 3.671-inch bore and a 3.100-inch stroke.
What is the difference between a 428 and a 429?
The 429 was Ford's state-of-the-art replacement for the FE-based 428, a design that had been around since 1958. Debuting as a passenger-car engine in '68, the 429 had a skirtless block, like the small-block 289s and 302s, and canted-valve heads, similar to the 351 Cleveland, for improved breathing.
What is the smallest Ford big-block?
370. The smallest-displacement engine of the 385 engine family, the 370 was introduced in 1977, replacing the 361 cu in (5.9 L) 360 Truck (FT) V8. Sharing its 3.59-inch stroke with the 429, the 370 was designed with a downsized 4.05-inch bore (shared with its predecessor and the 390 V8).
Is a Ford 427 a big block or small-block?
Despite this, the massive racing success of the 427, the technical acumen of the Cammer, and the FE engine's presence powering the GT40, the Cobra, and the Thunderbolt have guaranteed its place in American big block engine history.
