How much horsepower did the 1936 Ford V8 have?
About 60 horsepower.
Engine at a glance
Ford's 1936 V8 was the company's mass-market flathead V8, featuring a 136-cubic-inch displacement that powered a broad range of models. The horsepower rating most commonly cited for this engine is around 60 hp, though some period catalogs list 65 hp depending on the rating method used (gross versus net). This setup was part of Ford's strategy to deliver approachable V8 power during the Great Depression era.
Technical specifications
Key specifications for the engine, as commonly documented in period catalogs and restoration references, are summarized here:
- Displacement: 136 cubic inches (2.23 liters)
- Horsepower: 60 hp (SAE rating commonly cited for 1936 Ford V8; some catalogs list 65 hp under different conventions)
- Torque: roughly 120–135 lb-ft, depending on rpm and testing method
- Configuration: 90-degree flathead V8; side-valve design
- Compression ratio: about 6.8:1
Note: Power figures from the era vary by rating convention. The 60-horsepower figure is the most widely cited for the 136 cu in V8 in 1936 models like the Model 68 and related lines.
Historical context and impact
Introduced as Ford marketed its V8 as a dependable, affordable alternative to four- and six-cylinder rivals, the 1936 V8 helped foster broader consumer uptake of V8-powered cars. Its combination of simple engineering, robust reliability, and strong torque for its size made it a mainstay of Ford's lineup through the late 1930s and into the next decade.
Summary
In summary, the 1936 Ford V8 delivered about 60 horsepower from its 136-cubic-inch flathead V8, with some catalogs listing 65 hp under certain rating conventions. This engine played a pivotal role in Ford's mass-market strategy by providing affordable V8 power during the 1930s.
