Is a Chevy 427 a big block or small block?
The Chevy 427 engine is considered a big block engine, not a small block. The 427 cubic inch (7.0 liter) V8 engine was a powerful and iconic powerplant produced by Chevrolet from the 1960s through the 1970s.
What is a Big Block Engine?
A big block engine refers to a large-displacement V8 engine produced by American automakers, particularly Chevrolet, Ford, and Chrysler. Big block engines typically have a displacement of 396 cubic inches (6.5 liters) or more, with some models reaching up to 454 cubic inches (7.4 liters). The larger size of the engine block and cylinder heads is what gives big block engines their "big block" designation.
The Chevy 427 Engine
The Chevy 427 was a big block V8 engine produced by Chevrolet from 1966 to 1969. It had a displacement of 427 cubic inches (7.0 liters), making it one of the largest and most powerful engines offered by Chevrolet at the time. The 427 was used in a variety of Chevrolet models, including the Corvette, Impala, Chevelle, and Camaro.
The 427 engine was known for its impressive power output, with horsepower ratings ranging from 390 to 430 horsepower, depending on the specific engine variant. This made the 427 a popular choice for high-performance and muscle car enthusiasts.
Comparing Big Block and Small Block Engines
The key differences between big block and small block engines are:
- Displacement: Big block engines have a larger displacement, typically 396 cubic inches (6.5 liters) or more, while small block engines have a smaller displacement, usually less than 400 cubic inches (6.6 liters).
- Physical Size: Big block engines are physically larger and heavier than small block engines, with a larger engine block and cylinder heads.
- Power Output: Big block engines generally produce more horsepower and torque than small block engines, due to their larger displacement and physical size.
- Applications: Big block engines are often used in high-performance and muscle cars, while small block engines are more commonly found in mainstream passenger vehicles.
In summary, the Chevy 427 is considered a big block engine due to its large 427 cubic inch (7.0 liter) displacement, making it a powerful and iconic powerplant from Chevrolet's muscle car era.
Did Chevrolet ever make a 427 small-block?
With a 4.125-inch bore and 4.0-inch stroke, it's the largest small-block V-8 from Chevrolet, actually displacing 427.8 cubic inches. The LS7 bottom end used a forged crank for strength and titanium rods to trim weight.
How much horsepower does a 427 small-block Chevy have?
Chevy 427 Small Block - Lightweight Powerhouse
| RPM | Torque | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|
| 4,000 | 527 | 401 |
| 4,200 | 540 | 432 |
| 4,400 | 547 | 458 |
| 4,600 | 559 | 489 |
How much HP can you get out of a 427?
first off, a good 427 can make 600+ hp without anything remotely exotic. Second, as above, the motor you reference is built for boost, and you'll need 60+psi of it to get to 2500 HP. Thus the billet crank, super strong rods, and pistons that are not only strong, but have the top ring lowered from the crown.
Is a 427 a big-block or a small-block?
With its big-block-style output, the 427 obviously makes efficient use of the passages in the new heads—220 is derived from the 220cc intake runners, which are about 30 percent larger than a stock small-block's (170cc) runners—necessary to feed the 20-percent increase in displacement.
