Is the 360 a big block or small block?

The 360 engine is considered a small block engine, not a big block. The 360 is part of Chrysler's small block V8 engine family, which includes other popular engines like the 318 and 340. While the 360 is larger in displacement than some other small block engines, it is still classified as a small block due to its overall design and dimensions.

What is a Small Block Engine?

A small block engine refers to a V8 engine design that features a compact, lightweight construction compared to a big block engine. Small block engines typically have a shorter engine block height and smaller overall dimensions. This allows them to be used in a wider range of vehicle applications, including smaller and more fuel-efficient cars and trucks.

Characteristics of the 360 Engine

The Chrysler 360 engine is a 5.9-liter V8 that was produced from 1971 to 2002. Some key characteristics of the 360 include:

• Displacement of 360 cubic inches (5.9 liters)


• Bore x Stroke of 4.00 x 3.58 inches


• Lightweight, compact design typical of small block engines


• Used in a variety of Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth vehicles


• Known for its good balance of power and fuel efficiency

While the 360 is larger than some other small block V8s, its overall design and dimensions still classify it as a small block engine, not a big block.

Differences Between Small Block and Big Block Engines

The main differences between small block and big block engines include:

• Size and Weight: Big block engines are physically larger and heavier than small block engines, with a taller engine block and larger overall dimensions.


• Displacement: Big block engines typically have a larger displacement, often 400 cubic inches (6.6 liters) or more, compared to small block engines which are usually under 400 cubic inches.


• Power Output: Big block engines generally produce more horsepower and torque than small block engines, due to their larger displacement.


• Applications: Small block engines are more commonly used in passenger cars and light trucks, while big block engines are more often found in heavy-duty trucks, performance vehicles, and marine applications.

So in summary, the 360 engine is considered a small block V8, not a big block, due to its compact design and relatively modest displacement compared to true big block engines.

Is a Dodge 360 a big block or small block?

The fact is, the small block Mopar LA-engines (318, 340 and 360cid) were under-rated at the factory and were the last of the big three small blocks to be offered to the public.

Is a Ford 360 considered a big block?

Whether a "360" is a big block depends on the manufacturer and engine family. Some are indeed big blocks (like the Ford FE engine), while others are famous as small blocks (like the Chrysler/Mopar LA-series). For example, a "360 big block" commonly refers to the Ford FE engine, whereas the "360" in a Dodge or Plymouth is a small block engine. 

• Ford 360 FE: This is a big block engine, sharing a block with larger FE engines like the 390 and 428. It's known for being heavy and durable, originally designed for trucks and heavy-duty work. 
• Chrysler/Mopar 360: This is a small block engine, but it's one of the larger and more powerful small blocks available. It was used in performance vehicles like the Li'l Red Express truck. 
• Chevrolet 360: There is no standard Chevrolet 360-cubic-inch big block engine. However, the term can refer to modern performance heads for Chevrolet big blocks that have 360cc combustion chambers. 

You can watch this video to learn about the difference between a Mopar 360 and a 383: 1m318willrunYouTube · May 10, 2024

Is a 350 considered a small block?

Yes, the "350" is a type of small-block V8 engine, most famously from Chevrolet. It refers to the 350-cubic-inch (5.7-liter) displacement and is part of the "small-block" engine family, which is characterized by its physical size compared to larger "big-block" engines.
 
This video explains the history of the Chevy 350 small-block engine: 57sMyvintageiron7512YouTube · Oct 1, 2023

• Engine family: The 350 is part of the "small-block" family of V8 engines. 
• Displacement: The "350" signifies that the engine has a displacement of 350 cubic inches (5.7 liters). 
• Common usage: It has been one of the most widely produced and iconic engines, used in everything from passenger cars and trucks to performance and marine applications. 

Is a 360 engine a V8?

360 V8. The LA 360 cu in (5.9 L) has a bore and stroke of 4 in × 3.58 in (101.6 mm × 90.9 mm). It was released in 1971 with a two-barrel carburetor. The 360 used the large intake port 340 heads with a smaller intake valve of 1.88 in (48 mm).