How much horsepower does a 1940 Ford coupe have?
In stock form, the 1940 Ford Coupe was powered by Ford's flathead V8, delivering about 85 horsepower under the era's SAE gross rating. For modern readers, that figure reflects the measurement standards of the time and doesn’t directly translate to today’s dyno numbers.
The Powerplant: 221 cubic inches of flathead V8
The 1940 Ford Coupe used the 221 cubic inch (3.6-liter) flathead V8, a reliable, simple engine designed for smooth cruising rather than high performance. In stock configuration, it produced roughly 85 horsepower when measured by the era's gross SAE standard. The engine’s modest output and torque were paired with gearing and chassis design that favored steady highway cruising over quick acceleration.
Understanding the Numbers: Gross vs Net horsepower
Horsepower figures from the 1940 era follow different testing standards than modern ratings. A single figure can vary depending on whether it is listed as gross or net horsepower, and whether the test included or excluded ancillary equipment.
- SAE gross horsepower: roughly 85 hp for the 221 cu in flathead V8
- Net horsepower (modern testing or "as installed" values): typically lower, with variations by source and condition
Conclusion: The canonical stock horsepower for the 1940 Ford Coupe is about 85 hp under the old gross rating, but modern measurements can yield lower numbers depending on the method and car condition.
Impact on performance and driving feel
Compared with modern cars, the 1940 Ford Coupe offered modest acceleration and a relaxed cruising pace. The powertrain’s emphasis was reliability, ease of maintenance, and steadiness on long highway runs rather than high performance. Restorations and hot-rodders often modify these engines to increase output, but stock values remain a reference point for collectors.
Summary
The 1940 Ford Coupe's stock horsepower stands at about 85 hp under the SAE gross rating, produced by the 221 cubic inch flathead V8. Modern measurements may show lower numbers, and the exact figure can vary by testing method and condition. The engine was designed for everyday driving, not high-speed performance, and remains a cultural touchstone for pre-war American cruising.
How much horsepower does a 1940 Ford Deluxe coupe have?
85 horsepower
Buyers could choose a 136-ci engine with 60 horsepower and 94 foot-pounds of torque, or a larger 221-ci design with 85 horsepower and an impressive 153 ft-lb of torque. Fords of this generation started with mechanical brakes all around. Ford upgraded to Lockheed hydraulic brakes in 1939.
How much horsepower did the 1940 Ford V8 have?
about 85 horsepower
Displacement: In 1940, Ford's flathead V8 offered a 221 cubic inch (3.6L) displacement, producing about 85 horsepower. This balance of power and durability made it a popular choice for everyday drivers and racers alike.
What was the top speed of the 1940 Ford coupe?
around 85-90 mph
Performance: Top Speed: The 1940 Ford Coupe could reach a top speed of around 85-90 mph (137-145 km/h), which was impressive for the time. Acceleration: With the 239 V8, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 12-15 seconds, which was relatively quick for cars of that era.
What engine was in the 1940 Ford?
Redesignated V8-82A in 1938, V8-922A in 1939, and V8-022A in 1940, compression, power, and torque remained unchanged. The engine was very popular as a powerplant for midget race cars after World War II. This engine is most commonly referred to as the "60 horse" flathead, or the V8-60.
