Is a Ford 427 a big block or small block?
The Ford 427 engine is a legendary powerplant that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts and racers alike. Known for its performance and historical significance, many people wonder whether the Ford 427 is classified as a big block or a small block. In this article, we’ll dive into the details to clarify this question and explore what makes the Ford 427 so special.
The Ford 427: A Big Block Engine
The Ford 427 is unequivocally a big block engine. It belongs to Ford's FE engine family, which stands for "Ford-Edsel." The FE series was specifically designed as a line of big block V8 engines, intended for high-performance applications and larger vehicles. The 427 cubic-inch displacement places it firmly in the big block category, as small block engines typically have smaller displacements and physical dimensions.
What Makes the Ford 427 a Big Block?
Several characteristics distinguish the Ford 427 as a big block engine:
- Physical Size: The FE engine family, including the 427, features larger and heavier engine blocks compared to Ford's small block engines, such as the Windsor series.
- Displacement: With a displacement of 427 cubic inches, this engine was designed for high power output, a hallmark of big block engines.
- Applications: The 427 was used in high-performance vehicles, including the Ford Galaxie, Shelby Cobra, and even in racing applications like NASCAR and Le Mans, where big block engines were preferred for their power and durability.
Historical Significance of the Ford 427
The Ford 427 gained fame in the 1960s as a powerhouse engine that dominated both the streets and the racetrack. It was available in several configurations, including the "Side-Oiler" version, which featured improved oiling for high-performance use. This engine played a pivotal role in Ford's racing success, particularly in the Shelby Cobra and the Ford GT40, which famously won the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ford 427 is a big block engine, part of Ford's FE engine family. Its large displacement, physical size, and historical applications in high-performance and racing vehicles solidify its status as one of the most iconic big block engines in automotive history. Whether you're restoring a classic car or simply a fan of automotive engineering, the Ford 427 remains a symbol of power and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the smallest Ford big-block?
370. The smallest-displacement engine of the 385 engine family, the 370 was introduced in 1977, replacing the 361 cu in (5.9 L) 360 Truck (FT) V8. Sharing its 3.59-inch stroke with the 429, the 370 was designed with a downsized 4.05-inch bore (shared with its predecessor and the 390 V8).
What size block is a 427?
This question really depends on Era of the vehicle… the 1960's era 427 is a Big Block Engine, which would be considered an “L71”. In 2014 Chevrolet began production of the “LS7”, which is a 427 Small Block producing 505hp.
Is a 427 Ford a small block?
The 427 Ford Small Block Stroker engine is by far our most popular engine combination. We offer several different versions based on the 351 Windsor. This 500 HP version is designed for street driving.
Is a 427 a small block or big 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.
Why was the Ford 427 banned from NASCAR?
The ban was a significant blow to Ford. Especially after they had invested. So much time and money into developing the engine with hopes of competing against Chrysler's Hemi and NASCAR.
What is the difference between a small block and a big block?
Big block engines have more metal and more or larger cylinders. They tend to produce more power and torque because of their weight. Small blocks are just that — small or smaller than big blocks. While small block engines still have metal and cylinders, they are typically smaller and fewer in number.
Did Ford make a 427 big block?
The Ford single overhead cam (SOHC) 427 V8 engine, familiarly known as the "Cammer", was released in 1964 in an effort to maintain NASCAR dominance by seeking to counter the enormously large block Chrysler 426 Hemi "elephant" engine. The Ford 427 block was closer dimensionally to the smaller 392 cu. in.
What is the smallest Ford big block?
370. The smallest-displacement engine of the 385 engine family, the 370 was introduced in 1977, replacing the 361 cu in (5.9 L) 360 Truck (FT) V8. Sharing its 3.59-inch stroke with the 429, the 370 was designed with a downsized 4.05-inch bore (shared with its predecessor and the 390 V8).
