How much HP does a stock 318 have?

The stock horsepower of a Chrysler 318 small‑block V8 varies by year, model and configuration, but most examples fall in a broad band of roughly 150 to 230 horsepower.

Historical horsepower ranges by generation

Power figures shift with carburetion, compression and emissions rules. Below are representative numbers from the main eras you’ll encounter when evaluating a stock 318.

• LA 318 (1967–1980s): Early 318s with two-barrel carbs could show about 230 hp gross in the late 1960s; in the emissions‑era 1970s, published net horsepower commonly fell into roughly 150–180 hp, with variations by market and configuration.


• Late-1980s to mid-1990s 5.2L Magnum 318 (1992–1995-ish): This generation typically delivered about 230 hp SAE net, with torque near 300 lb‑ft in many applications, thanks to updated induction and heads.


• Later 5.2L variants (mid-1990s onward): Power generally hovered in the 210–230 hp range in trucks and family cars, with minor year‑to‑year variations due to emissions tuning and model differences.

Conclusion: The 318's horsepower depends on the exact year, model, and engine family (LA vs Magnum). For a precise figure, you need the specific vehicle year, model, and engine code.

What to know when comparing numbers

The following factors commonly influence stock horsepower figures for the 318 across generations:

• Engine designation: LA vs Magnum indicate different platforms with distinct power outputs.


• Induction: 2-barrel vs 4-barrel vs fuel injection can shift horsepower by notable margins depending on era.


• Compression ratio: Higher compression generally yielded more power in older engines; later designs used lower compression for emissions and fuel quality concerns.


• Emissions and tuning: Emissions regulations and testing standards (gross vs net ratings) often reduced published horsepower in some periods.


• Vehicle application: Trucks, minivans, and performance cars used different tunes, affecting peak horsepower and torque curves.

Conclusion: When comparing horsepower, identify the engine family (LA vs Magnum), the exact year, and the fuel system configuration to interpret numbers accurately.

Practical examples by era

The following are representative figures to illustrate typical stock outputs for common 318 installations:

• 1967–1969 Dodge/D Plymouth 318 (two-barrel): Approximately 230 hp gross; net ratings in later years typically lower due to emissions controls.


• Early 1970s 318 (emissions era): Net horsepower commonly around 150–170 hp, with variations by model and market.


• Late 1990s 5.2L Magnum 318 (jeep/dodge/chrysler): About 230 hp SAE net in many applications, with modern EFI contributing to a strong, usable power band.

Conclusion: Engine technology and regulatory changes explain the wide range of horsepower figures reported for the 318 across decades.

Summary: A stock 318’s horsepower is not fixed; it spans roughly 150–230 hp depending on generation, year, and application. Early carbureted LA 318s offered around 230 hp gross in the late 1960s, while emissions-era and EFI versions typically show lower net numbers or slightly higher figures depending on tuning. For a precise figure, provide the exact year, model, and engine code.

If you can share the specific vehicle year, model, or engine code (for example, 318 LA vs 5.2 Magnum), I can give you a precise horsepower figure for that stock setup.

How much horsepower does a 318 have?

A stock Chrysler 318 engine's horsepower can range from around 120 to 230 hp, depending on the year and application. Modified 318 engines can achieve much higher horsepower, with some performance builds reaching over 400 hp. For example, a stock late 1980s 318 might produce 170 hp, while a modified 1960s version could have around 230 hp. 
Stock horsepower

• 1972–1988: Factory ratings generally ranged from 120 to 175 hp. 
• 1978 Dodge Magnum GT: The 318 produced 140 hp. 
• 1967: A 318 with an air-conditioner could have about 230 hp. 
• 1989 TBI (Throttle Body Injection): The engine was rated at 170 hp. 

Modified horsepower

• Hot rod builds: Well-built performance versions can easily exceed 300 hp, with some reaching over 400 hp. 
• Stroker builds: A stroker version of the 318 can produce over 420 hp. 

Is a 5.2 L V8 a 318?

In the mid-1960s, Chrysler decided to adapt the 318 cu in (5.2 L) small block V8 into a lightweight, high output engine equally suited for drag strip or street performance use.

How much horsepower does a 1972 Charger 318 have?

Equipped with the “proven economy run winner” 318-cu.in V-8, the 1972 Charger would have produced 150 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and carried a base sticker price of $2,759, including such amenities as dual-speed wipers, a cigarette lighter, roof drip rails, wheel well moldings, and dual range horns.

Is a 318 a good engine?

Yes, the Mopar 318 is generally considered a good engine, known for being durable, reliable, and a versatile workhorse. While its stock form was often low-powered, it is a robust foundation that can be upgraded for significant performance increases. It's praised for its "bulletproof" nature, simple design, and longevity. 
Strengths

• Durability and reliability: The 318 is famous for its long-lasting, simple design with a sturdy iron block, making it incredibly durable. 
• Good foundation for upgrades: Its engine block, cylinder heads (with porting), crankshaft, and connecting rods are all strong enough to handle high performance, making it a great base for a build. 
• Economical and efficient: Compared to larger engines, the 318 offers decent gas mileage. 
• Affordable: The engine is often overlooked, making it an inexpensive option to purchase for performance projects. 
• Versatility: It has been used successfully in a wide range of applications, including cars, trucks, and industrial equipment. 

Weaknesses (in stock form)

• Low stock horsepower: Factory versions often came with low-performance parts like a two-barrel carburetor, single exhaust, low-compression cylinder heads, and a mild camshaft, which limited their power output. 
• Potential for oil consumption: Some older models, particularly those in motorhomes, were known to consume oil, though this was often manageable with its high mileage expectations. 

How to decide if it's right for you

• For a daily driver: A stock 318 is a reliable and economical choice for a daily driver if it's in good condition. 
• For a performance build: A 318 is an excellent and cost-effective engine to build into a high-performance powerhouse with the right upgrades. 

This video discusses the performance potential of the 318 engine: 1mNick's GarageYouTube · Oct 23, 2023