How much horsepower does a Dodge Coronet have?
The Dodge Coronet's horsepower isn't fixed; it varied by year and engine, from roughly 100–140 hp on early six-cylinder models to about 425 hp with the 426 Hemi in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Engine options and horsepower by era
1950s: Early Coronet engines
During the 1950s, Coronet models offered a range of powertrains from economical inline-sixes to larger V8s. The horsepower figures varied with displacement and tuning, typically spanning the following ranges.
- Inline-6 engines: roughly 100–125 hp.
- Small-block V8 options: roughly 180–230 hp.
- Larger V8 options (late 1950s potential): about 250–275 hp in higher-trim or performance-oriented configurations.
In this era, mpg-conscious specs and the era's rating methods meant horsepower varied significantly by the exact engine and market.
1960s: The muscle-car era
By the 1960s, the Coronet gained access to Mopar’s big-block power and high-performance packages. The following representative engines illustrate the upper end of the lineup for performance-oriented Coronet models.
- 383 cu in V8: about 330–335 hp (depending on year and tuning).
- 426 Hemi: 425 hp (gross rating) on performance models.
- 440 Magnum (440 cu in V8): roughly 375–390 hp (varies by year and carburation).
- 440 Six-Pack (three 2-barrel carbs): about 390 hp (gross).
These figures reflect the peak power available on top-tier Coronet variants such as the R/T models, which were built for serious straight-line speed and high performance.
1970s: Emissions era and horsepower trends
In the early 1970s, emissions controls, insurance factors, and rising fuel-economy concerns began shaping horsepower numbers. Performance-focused Coronet configurations still delivered robust power, though numbers began to drift downward compared with the late-1960s peak.
- 440 cu in engines: typically around 375–390 hp in high-performance configurations.
- 426 Hemi (where offered in Coronet variants): about 425 hp in the early- to mid-1970s contexts.
- Lower-end or standard engines: decreased from peak horsepower as emissions and economy measures took effect.
Overall, horsepower in this era remained strong for enthusiasts but softened relative to the late 1960s peak.
Notes on horsepower ratings
Horsepower ratings from the 1960s and early 1970s were often measured as gross horsepower, which is higher than the later net horsepower used for modern ratings. When evaluating a specific Coronet, compare the engine code, build sheet, and original window sticker to confirm the exact rating for that car.
How to identify the horsepower on a specific Coronet
To determine the exact horsepower on a given Dodge Coronet, use these identification methods and sources.
- Check the VIN and build sheet for the original engine and options.
- Inspect the engine code stamp on the engine block to reveal the displacement family.
- Refer to the original window sticker or dealer invoice when available.
- Consult Dodge/Plymouth heritage documentation or a trusted Mopar expert for model-year specifics.
With the right documentation, you can determine whether a Coronet carries a base engine or a high-performance option such as the 426 Hemi or 440 Six-Pack.
Summary
The Dodge Coronet's horsepower varies widely by model year and engine. Early six-cylinder and smaller V8 options delivered modest power, while late-1960s high-performance configurations—especially the 426 Hemi and 440 Six-Pack—delivered 375–425 hp. The trends of the early 1970s, influenced by emissions controls, gradually reduced peak horsepower in many configurations. For a precise figure on a specific car, consult its build sheet, engine code, and documentation.
Was the Dodge Coronet a muscle car?
Yes, the Dodge Coronet became a muscle car, especially with the R/T (Road and Track) performance trim, which was available with powerful engines like the 440 Magnum and the legendary 426 Hemi. While the Coronet was a mass-market car, high-performance models like the R/T are considered muscle cars for their aggressive styling and powerful engines.
- Performance-focused trim: The R/T model was specifically designed for performance, featuring a standard 440 Magnum V8 engine producing 375375375 horsepower.
- Optional Hemi engine: A 426 Hemi V8, delivering 425425425 horsepower, was also available as an option, solidifying its muscle car credentials.
- Aggressive styling: The Coronet R/T featured a bold, muscular design, with styling that set it apart from the standard models.
- Collector status: Due to its powerful engines and aggressive styling, the R/T models are highly sought-after by collectors today.
How much horsepower does a 1969 Dodge Coronet 440 have?
At the bottom of the range was the Coronet Deluxe, which came powered either by a 225-c.i. slant-six or optional 180-hp 273-c.i. V-8. Next was the Coronet 440, which had six-cylinder power, though most were ordered with either the 273- or 440-c.i. V-8, which made 375 hp.
What engine was in a 1968 Dodge Coronet?
The Coronet R/T was available as a two-door hardtop or convertible. The standard engine was Chrysler's largest, the 440 cu in (7.2 L) V8 producing 375 bhp and dubbed the Magnum.
How much is a 1966 Dodge Coronet 440 worth?
A 1966 Dodge Coronet 440's value can range from around $16,000$ 16 comma 000$16,000 for a good, average-spec example to over $77,000$ 77 comma 000$77,000 for a rare, exceptionally well-maintained one. The price depends heavily on condition, mileage, and desirable options, with high-end models commanding the highest prices and those needing significant work selling for much less.
- Average condition: A good condition 1966 Dodge Coronet 440 with average specifications typically values around $16,075$ 16 comma 075$16,075.
- High-end examples: The highest recent auction price was $77,000$ 77 comma 000$77,000 for a rare and pristine model.
- Low-end examples: The lowest recent auction price was $14,700$ 14 comma 700$14,700 for a car in poor condition.
- Factors affecting value: Key factors include condition, mileage, originality, and any desirable options or modifications.
- Recent sales: Examples sold at auction range from the lower end for cars needing work to over $71,000$ 71 comma 000$71,000 for very high-quality examples.
