How much horsepower does a 1984 Dodge 318 have?
The 1984 Dodge 318 V8 typically produced about 150 horsepower (SAE net) in most light-duty applications, with some California-spec or EFI-equipped variants capable of roughly 165–170 horsepower.
Understanding horsepower for the 1984 Dodge 318 requires looking at the engine family, configuration, and emission controls of that model year. The 318 was Mopar's 5.2-liter small-block in the LA engine family, widely used in Dodge cars and trucks in the early 1980s. Horsepower figures vary with carburetion versus fuel-injection setups, and with the SAE rating convention used at the time.
Overview of the 1984 318 engine
The 5.2-liter (318 cubic inch) V8 in 1984 Dodges was part of Chrysler's LA engine family. It was commonly tuned for reliability and economy under federal emission standards, and across model lines it served in cars, pickups, and vans. The default production spec for most applications was roughly 150 horsepower with torque in the neighborhood of 250–260 lb-ft, depending on the exact build and exhaust setup.
Engine family and documentation
The 318 in 1984 belonged to Chrysler’s LA small-block lineup, widely documented in factory service manuals and sales literature of the era. Differences between federal and California markets, as well as changes in emissions and rating conventions, shaped the published horsepower figures for different vehicles using the same base engine.
Factors that influenced horsepower
Horsepower ratings from that era were affected by several design and regulatory choices. The following factors helped determine the actual horsepower you’d see in a given 1984 Dodge 318:
- Emissions specification: Federal vs California-spec engines could differ due to stricter California rules, affecting horsepower slightly.
- Fuel system: Carbureted two-barrel setups generally delivered around 150 hp, while some California/lean-burn or early EFI configurations could show modestly higher or different performance figures.
- SAE rating method: The industry transitioned from SAE gross to SAE net during this era; 1984 numbers reflect net horsepower, which is lower than older gross ratings.
- Engine tuning and exhaust: Intake and exhaust (manifold choice, catalytic converter, and muffler) could influence the measured horsepower and torque output.
In practice, buyers and restorers should expect the 1984 318 in typical Dodge passenger cars and light trucks to be around 150 hp, with some variance up to roughly 165–170 hp in certain California-spec or EFI-equipped builds. Torque would generally be in the 240–260 lb-ft range.
Practical takeaways for enthusiasts
For collectors or restorers, matching the correct engine variant to the intended vehicle is important for authenticity. If you’re trying to verify horsepower, rely on the original window sticker or service manuals for that specific vehicle, as there is variation by trim and market. Tuning from factory spec, such as aftermarket exhaust or intake changes, can alter numbers beyond stock figures.
Summary
The 1984 Dodge 318 typically produced about 150 horsepower in most configurations, with possible variations up to around 165–170 hp in certain California-spec or EFI variants. This reflects the SAE net rating used at the time and the era’s emphasis on emissions compliance and reliability. For precise figures, consult your vehicle’s VIN-specific documentation or a factory service manual.
