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Is a Dodge 440 a good engine?

The Dodge 440 engine is a powerful and reliable V8 engine that was produced by Chrysler Corporation from 1966 to 1978. It is generally considered a good engine choice for those looking for strong performance and durability in their Dodge or Chrysler vehicles.


Overview of the Dodge 440 Engine


The Dodge 440 is a big-block V8 engine that was available in a variety of Dodge and Chrysler models, including the Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Coronet, and Chrysler 300. It had a displacement of 7.2 liters (440 cubic inches), giving it a significant power advantage over smaller V8 engines of the era.


Some key features of the Dodge 440 engine include:



  • Robust Construction: The 440 was built with a heavy-duty cast-iron block and heads, making it a durable and long-lasting engine.

  • High Power Output: In its highest-performance variants, the 440 could produce over 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, providing impressive acceleration and towing capability.

  • Reliability: With proper maintenance, the 440 is known for its reliability and ability to rack up high mileage without major issues.


Overall, the Dodge 440 is considered a good engine choice for those seeking strong performance and durability in their classic Mopar vehicles.


Advantages of the Dodge 440 Engine


There are several key advantages to choosing a Dodge 440 engine:



  • Power and Torque: The 440's large displacement and robust design give it excellent power and torque output, making it well-suited for high-performance applications or towing heavy loads.

  • Durability: The 440's heavy-duty construction and proven track record of reliability make it a durable and long-lasting engine choice.

  • Aftermarket Support: The Dodge 440 has a large and active aftermarket, with a wide range of performance parts and upgrades available to further enhance its capabilities.

  • Classic Styling: The 440 is a quintessential American muscle car engine, adding to the classic appeal of Dodge and Chrysler vehicles from the 1960s and 1970s.


For those seeking a powerful, reliable, and iconic engine for their classic Mopar project, the Dodge 440 is often an excellent choice.


Potential Drawbacks of the Dodge 440


While the Dodge 440 is generally considered a good engine, there are a few potential drawbacks to be aware of:



  • Fuel Efficiency: The 440's large displacement and high-performance nature mean it can be relatively fuel-inefficient, especially in comparison to modern engines.

  • Emissions: Older 440 engines may not meet modern emissions standards, which could be a consideration for those looking to use the engine in a daily driver or in areas with strict environmental regulations.

  • Weight: The 440's heavy-duty construction means it is a relatively heavy engine, which can impact handling and acceleration in some vehicle applications.


However, for many enthusiasts, the advantages of the Dodge 440 engine outweigh these potential drawbacks, making it a popular choice for classic Mopar muscle car projects and restorations.

How much HP does a Dodge 440 make?


Even the highest-performing factory 440, the 390-horsepower Six-Pack (or Six-Barrel) version, had a relatively mild hydraulic flat-tappet camshaft and non-adjustable rocker arms, ensuring years of smooth, maintenance-free operation.



Is the Dodge 440 a good engine?


We all know the 440 big-block is the largest displacement V-8 engine built by Chrysler, and when it comes to a combination of torque, power, and drivability, the 440 ranks as one of the best engines ever built.



How much HP does a stock 454 big block have?


The 454 EFI version was rated from 230 hp (172 kW) to 255 hp (190 kW) and from 385 lb⋅ft (522 N⋅m) to 405 lb⋅ft (549 N⋅m) of torque. The 1991–1993 454SS made 255 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 405 lb-ft of torque at 2400 rpm thanks to dual 2.5" catalytic converters.



How much is a 440 Dodge worth?


A: The average price of a Dodge 440 is $46,773.



Is a 426 Hemi more powerful than a 440?


Chrysler had several different output versions of the 440, with the highest being the Six Pack iteration, which featured three two-barrel carburetors on the intake. Despite the larger displacement size, it couldn't quite reach the power output of the 426 Hemi, maxing out at 390 hp.



Was the Dodge 440 a good engine?


We all know the 440 big-block is the largest displacement V-8 engine built by Chrysler, and when it comes to a combination of torque, power, and drivability, the 440 ranks as one of the best engines ever built.



How much HP can a stock 440 block handle?


Although the most powerful factory stock 440 engines produced a rated 390 gross horsepower, the OEM blocks can take power in the 600hp range, and survive practically indefinitely at the 500-550hp level. Mopar built quite a bit of strength into the bottom end of these engines.



Can you turn a 440 into a Hemi?


Thus neither factory nor race-type Hemi heads can be bolted on or readily adapted to fit plentiful B (383, 400) or RB (413, 440) blocks even though bore spacing, head bolts, most water passages, and other dimensions are the same.



Is a Mopar 440 a big block?


The Chrysler 440 falls in the RB class of Mopar big-block engines. The initials "RB" stand for raised block, meaning a taller deck height than the B-engine to accommodate the RB's longer stroke. Other engines which fall into this category include the 413 and the 426 Wedge.



What was the last year of the Dodge 440 engine?


1978
The 440 cu in (7.2 L) RB was produced from 1965 until 1978, making it the last version of the Chrysler RB block. It had a light wall construction, precision cast-iron block, with iron heads and a bore of 4.32 in (109.7 mm), for an overall displacement of 440 cu in (7.2 L).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.