How much HP does a 426 stroker have?
A typical 426 cubic‑inch stroker makes about 450–550 horsepower in a streetable, naturally aspirated setup, with higher outputs possible through stronger heads, higher compression, and performance tuning. With forced induction, power can climb well beyond 700 horsepower depending on the specifics of the build.
What a 426 stroker is and where the number comes from
The label "426 stroker" usually refers to a Chevrolet small‑block engine that has been stroked to roughly 4.00 inches of crank throw with a bore around 4.125 inches, yielding about 426 cubic inches of displacement. Builders use aftermarket crankshafts, rods, pistons, and cylinder heads to achieve this size and tune it for street or strip use. The exact components chosen determine how much horsepower the engine ultimately makes.
Key configurations
Below is a look at common ways people configure a 426 stroker and how those choices affect power output.
- Naturally aspirated street build with moderate compression and stock or aftermarket iron heads: typically 420–470 HP.
- Improved breathing with aluminum heads, better intake, a hotter cam, and higher compression: roughly 480–550 HP.
- High‑performance NA with premium components (aluminum heads, optimized cam, free‑flowing exhaust): about 550–650 HP.
- Forced induction (turbo or supercharger): power can reach roughly 650–900+ HP, depending on boost and fueling.
Note: These figures are approximate and depend on exact displacement, head flow, compression ratio, cam timing, induction method, exhaust, and RPM range. Real‑world dyno results vary.
Putting horsepower in context
Think of the 426 stroker as a flexible platform: it can deliver solid torque for everyday driving while also allowing for high RPM breathing and competitive performance in race‑oriented builds. The right combination of parts and tuning makes a big difference in the final horsepower figure.
Summary
A 426 stroker typically lands in the 450–550 HP range for common street builds, with possibilities well into the 550–650 HP band for optimized NA configurations. Forced induction can push total output much higher, often into the 700–900+ HP range, depending on boost and support systems. The exact horsepower depends on how the engine is built, tuned, and used.
