How much horsepower does a 1978 Dodge Charger have?
In 1978, the Dodge Charger offered several engine choices, so horsepower varied by the exact configuration. The most common outputs ranged roughly from 150 horsepower to about 230 horsepower, depending on engine size and emission controls.
Engine options and horsepower
The following engine families were available for 1978 Chargers, with typical SAE net horsepower ranges observed in most production examples from that year.
- 318 cu in V8 (5.2 L) — approximately 150–160 horsepower
- 360 cu in V8 (5.9 L) — approximately 180–205 horsepower
- 400 cu in V8 (6.6 L) — approximately 190–230 horsepower
These figures reflect the SAE net ratings used at the time, which accounted for emissions equipment and other configuration differences. The exact output for a given car could vary based on carburetion (two-barrel vs. four-barrel), exhaust, and active California or federal emissions equipment.
Notes on how to determine the exact figure
To know the precise horsepower for a specific 1978 Charger, consult the vehicle’s factory build sheet or fender tag, which lists the engine code and corresponding power rating. Dealer documentation or restoration references often map engine codes to horsepower for that exact car.
Summary
The 1978 Dodge Charger did not have a single horsepower figure. Depending on the engine—318, 360, or 400 cubic inches—the car ranged from roughly 150 horsepower up to about 230 horsepower, with mid-range models typically in the 180–205 horsepower band. For an exact number, identify the engine code from the car’s documentation or build sheet.
