How much horsepower does a 1970 Ford 427 have?

In 1970, Ford did not offer a new, standard 427 in most of its lineup, and the horsepower figures depended on the exact 427 variant that was installed. The typical common 427 FE engine produced about 390 horsepower, while the Cobra Jet 427 variant delivered around 425 horsepower. Because Ford moved its big-block lineup toward other displacements by then, there wasn’t a single universal 1970 figure for a factory 427.

This article explains the historical context, the main 427 variants that affected horsepower ratings, and how to verify what you’re looking at in a 1970 Ford application.

Context: Where the 427 stood in Ford’s lineup

The 427 cubic inch V8, part of Ford’s FE engine family, powered a number of performance cars in the mid-to-late 1960s. By 1970, Ford’s big-block strategy shifted toward larger-displacement engines like the 429 (Cleveland) and the 460 Windsor-based engines in many applications. The 427 most commonly discussed in relation to 1970 is the late-1960s Cobra Jet 427, which had higher horsepower ratings, but it was no longer a standard option in new 1970 models. The exact horsepower you’ll see on a 1970 427 depends on the specific variant and its rating system (gross horsepower of the era vs. net horsepower used later).

Key horsepower figures by 427 variant

The following variants are the ones most frequently cited when discussing the 427’s horsepower from Ford’s late-1960s performance cars. The numbers reflect the gross horsepower ratings Ford published at the time, which differ from modern net ratings.

• 427 FE 4V High-Performance (common 1960s version) — approximately 390 horsepower, with torque around 450 lb-ft. This version was widely used in performance models late in the FE era.


• 427 Cobra Jet (CJ) 1968–1969 — about 425 horsepower, with torque around 450 lb-ft. This was Ford’s high-performance, higher-compression variant used in cars such as the late-60s Cobra Jet line.

Horsepower figures above are factory gross ratings from the period and are not directly comparable to modern net horsepower. Real-world performance could vary with intake, exhaust, carburetion, and emissions equipment.

Was there a true 1970 factory 427?

Not as a standard, widely offered option. By 1970, Ford’s mainstream big-block strategy had shifted away from the 427 in favor of other displacements. Some 427 engines persisted in older inventory, specialty builds, or leftover/collector scenarios, but they were not a regular, new-production option in 1970 model year Fords. If you encounter a 1970 car advertised with a 427, it’s essential to verify exactly which variant it is and what rating was originally published for that configuration.

How to verify horsepower on a real 1970 427

Before inspecting or evaluating a vehicle, consider these verification steps to determine the engine’s horsepower and configuration.

• Check the engine’s VIN-related codes and the data plate for the engine code (which can indicate FE family and variant).



• Note the carburetion and intake setup (4V vs. 2V, aftermarket modifications can alter performance profiles).


• Match the vehicle’s original window sticker or build sheet to confirm the factory engine option for that specific car.

These checks help distinguish a genuine 427 from later alterations or misidentifications, especially given the era’s varied labeling and option codes.

Historical context and how enthusiasts view the 427 today

Today, the Ford 427 remains a symbol of late-60s American performance, particularly in the Cobra Jet lineage and Shelby-influenced cars. Its horsepower figures, as published by Ford, reflect the era’s gross rating method, which tends to look more generous than modern net ratings after accounting for drivetrain efficiency and emissions controls. For collectors and restorers, matching the correct variant and ensuring authenticity of the engine’s code, carburetion, and supporting components is crucial for preserving the car’s historical value.

Summary

In 1970, Ford did not offer a uniform “1970 427 horsepower” figure. The most common 427 variants from the late 1960s produced roughly 390 hp (FE 4V) in standard performance form and about 425 hp (Cobra Jet) in the high-performance variant. By 1970, the 427 was largely phased out in new production, with big-block priorities shifting to other displacements. If you’re assessing a specific 1970 car claiming a 427, verify the exact engine code, block and head configuration, and the original options to determine the true horsepower rating for that vehicle.

How much horsepower does a Ford 427 have?

The horsepower of a Ford 427 engine varies significantly depending on its specific version, with racing models like the 427 SOHC reaching over 600 horsepower and modern crate engines often delivering around 500 to 540 horsepower. Early racing versions produced around 485 to 520+ horsepower, while many street and performance models range from 390 hp to 500+ hp.
 
This video shows a Ford 427 engine on the dyno, measuring horsepower and torque: 51sNick's GarageYouTube · Sep 2, 2024
Historical and racing engines

• Ford 427 SOHC (Single Overhead Cam): This high-performance engine produced over 600 horsepower, with some versions rated at 616 hp to 657 hp. 
• Original FE 427: A stock version powered the GT40 and produced 485 hp in 1966 and 520+ hp in 1967, according to MotorTrend and Mac's Motor City Garage. 

You can watch this video to see a Ford 427 engine in a GT40 and learn about its history: 1mBullnoseGarageYouTube · Oct 13, 2025
Modern crate engines

• Ford Performance crate engines: A Ford Performance 427 crate engine with "Z2" heads delivers 543 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque. 
• Blueprint Engines: A Blueprint Engines 427 crate engine can produce 541 hp and 519 lb-ft of torque. 
• Other custom engines: Companies like Nelson Racing Engines offer packages producing 630 horsepower, while others like Prestige Motorsports offer various street-oriented versions with power ratings around 500 to 520 hp. 

What is the difference between a 427 small block and a 427 big block?

A "427" engine can be either a small-block or a big-block, depending on its manufacturer and era, so the comparison depends on the specific engines. However, a big-block 427 (like the classic Chevy and Ford versions) is typically a physically larger, heavier engine with more torque and high-RPM power, built for raw power and durability. A modern small-block 427 (like the Chevy LS7) is lighter, more compact, and better for handling, but can still be built to produce high horsepower through modern technology.
 
This video explains the key differences between big-block and small-block engines: 58sCJ Pony PartsYouTube · Jan 14, 2022
Big-Block 427 (e.g., classic Chevy/Ford) 

• Physical size and weight: Physically larger and heavier, often made of iron, which impacts handling. 
• Power characteristics: Designed for high torque and horsepower, especially at higher RPMs. 
• Construction: Features larger heads, valves, and ports, and often has a forged crankshaft from the factory. 
• Best for: Applications where raw power and durability are the priority, such as racing or heavy-duty use. 

Small-Block 427 (e.g., modern Chevy LS7)

• Physical size and weight: Smaller and lighter, making it better for overall vehicle handling and weight distribution. 
• Power characteristics: Provides a more nimble feel and can achieve high RPMs more easily. 
• Construction: Shares the smaller block dimensions, but uses modern engineering to achieve high horsepower. 
• Best for: Handling-focused builds where a good power-to-weight ratio is desired. 

How to tell them apart

• Engine family: The "small-block vs. big-block" distinction is based on the engine family's bore spacing, not just displacement. 
• Era and manufacturer: A 427 from the 1960s is a big-block Chevy, while a 427 from a modern era (like the 2014 LS7) is a small-block. 
• Performance needs: Your choice depends on your project. For brute force and torque, a big-block is often the answer. For a lighter, more agile car with modern power, a small-block is the better choice. 

What is the difference between a Ford 427 and 428?

The main difference is that the Ford 427 was a high-revving, racing engine with a bigger bore and shorter stroke, while the 428 was a lower-RPM, torque-focused engine with a smaller bore and longer stroke designed for the street. The 427 was more expensive to build due to its racing-oriented features, whereas the 428 was simpler and cheaper, using many parts from other engines in its family. 
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between the Ford 427 and 428 engines: 1mEpic MotorsYouTube · May 21, 2025
Ford 427

• Purpose: A dedicated high-performance racing engine. 
• Bore/Stroke: Larger bore (4.254.254.25 inches) and shorter stroke (3.783.783.78 inches). 
• Construction: More expensive to build, with features like a forged steel crank, cross-bolted main bearing caps, and a side-oiling system. 
• Performance: Designed to operate at higher RPMs and was a dominant force in NASCAR and drag racing. 

Ford 428

• Purpose: A street-oriented, high-torque engine for everyday performance. 
• Bore/Stroke: Smaller bore (4.134.134.13 inches) and a longer stroke (3.983.983.98 inches). 
• Construction: A simpler and cheaper design, often based on the 390 and built with a cast crank and 2-bolt mains. 
• Performance: Known for its strong low-end torque, making it feel powerful at lower RPMs. The high-performance 428 Cobra Jet is a well-known version of this engine. 

How much horsepower does a 1970 Torino 429 Cobra jet have?

375 hp
The top option was the 429 SCJ (Super Cobra Jet), rated at 375 hp (280 kW), and was part of the "Drag Pack" option.