How much horsepower does a 1979 Dodge Red Express have?
Around 180 horsepower (SAE net) from the 360 cubic inch V8 in the 1979 Dodge Li'l Red Express Truck. The figure comes from the SAE net rating used in that era, and real-world output can vary by market, emissions equipment, and condition. This article looks at the engine, how horsepower was measured then, and what factors can influence the number you see.
Background: the Li'l Red Express legend
The Li'l Red Express was Chrysler's bold, limited-edition Dodge D-Series pickup produced for the 1978–1979 model years. It was famous for its bright red paint, woodgrain accents, and distinctive dual exhaust stacks that protruded through the bed. Marketed as a performance-oriented work truck, it remains a standout icon from the late 1970s pickup scene.
Engine horsepower specification
Before listing the core specs, note that the following figures pertain to the commonly cited configuration for the 1979 Li'l Red Express and reflect the SAE net ratings used after 1972. The numbers can vary slightly by market (federal vs California), trim, and factory gearing.
- Engine: 360 cubic inch (5.9 L) V8
- Induction: 4-barrel carburetor
- Exhaust: Dual exhaust with the signature twin outlets
- Horsepower: approximately 180 SAE net hp
- Torque: roughly 290 lb-ft
- Transmission: 727 Torqueflite automatic (most common configuration)
Concluding note: while 180 hp is the typical figure cited for the 1979 Li'l Red Express, actual output can vary by emission equipment, market (California vs federal), transmission choice, and vehicle condition. Restorations or modifications can also shift measurable horsepower.
Measurement caveats and variations
In the 1970s, manufacturers used different horsepower ratings than today. The Li'l Red Express’ 180 hp is SAE net horsepower, which accounts for drivetrain losses and accessories, making it lower than the older gross horsepower figures. Emissions controls and the difference between federal and California specifications also influenced the published numbers.
Net vs gross horsepower
Net horsepower reflects the engine’s output after allowing for power losses from accessories, alternator, water pump, and other components. Gross horsepower, common in earlier eras, did not subtract these losses. For the 1979 Dodge Red Express, the widely cited figure is the net rating, which generally yields a number around 180 hp for this engine and configuration.
Market and configuration effects
California-market trucks sometimes carried different exhaust or emissions setups that could marginally affect horsepower numbers. Transmission type (automatic versus manual) and axle gearing also influence the observed performance, though the engine itself remains the 360 V8 in most 1979 Li'l Red Express builds.
Summary
The 1979 Dodge Li'l Red Express is best known for its striking styling and dual-exhaust setup, but its engine—360 cu in V8—produced about 180 SAE net horsepower with roughly 290 lb-ft of torque. Horsepower figures can vary slightly by market, emissions equipment, and the specific drivetrain, but 180 hp is the commonly cited benchmark for this iconic truck. The combination of styling, sound, and performance makes the Red Express a memorable symbol of late-70s pickup culture.
