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What cars had the Flathead V8?

The Flathead V8 engine, also known as the Ford Flathead V8, was a groundbreaking automotive design that revolutionized the industry in the 1930s and 1940s. This iconic engine was used in a wide range of classic cars, from Ford's own models to those of other manufacturers, and its impact on the automotive world is still felt today.


What is the Flathead V8?


The Flathead V8 was a type of internal combustion engine where the valves were located in the engine block, rather than in the cylinder head. This design, which was pioneered by Ford, allowed for a simpler and more compact engine layout, making it easier and more cost-effective to manufacture. The Flathead V8 was known for its smooth and powerful performance, as well as its distinctive sound.


Cars with the Flathead V8


The Flathead V8 was used in a wide range of classic cars, including:



  • Ford Models: The Flathead V8 was first introduced in the 1932 Ford Model B and was used in many Ford models throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including the Ford Deluxe, Ford Tudor, and Ford Coupe.

  • Mercury Models: The Flathead V8 was also used in Mercury models, such as the Mercury Eight, which was introduced in 1939.

  • Other Manufacturers: The Flathead V8 was not exclusive to Ford and Mercury, and was also used in cars from other manufacturers, such as the Studebaker Champion and the Hudson Commodore.


The Flathead V8 was a popular choice for hot rodders and custom car builders, who often modified the engine to increase its power and performance.


The Legacy of the Flathead V8


The Flathead V8 engine was a groundbreaking design that had a lasting impact on the automotive industry. Its smooth and powerful performance, as well as its relatively simple and cost-effective design, made it a popular choice for manufacturers and consumers alike. Even today, the Flathead V8 is still highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and its legacy continues to be felt in the world of classic cars.p>

Did Cadillac make a flathead V-8?


In 1937, the new monobloc flathead gained 24 cu in (390 cc) in Cadillac V-8 models to 346 cu in (5.7 L), while the LaSalle straight-8 of 1934–1936 that originated from Oldsmobile actually was replaced with the 1936 smaller 322 cu in (5.3 L) version at 125 hp (93 kW).



What was the problem with the Ford Flathead V8?


Poor Cooling - From the beginning, flattys had issues with cooling. The 90 degree engine made for inefficient air flow. Despite ongoing improvements over the engine's 50 year production timeline, this issue was never really fixed.



How much horsepower did a 1952 Ford Flathead V8 have?


110 hp
The 226 CID (3.7 L) L-head straight-6 was replaced by an overhead valve 215 CID (3.5 L) Mileage Maker with 101 hp (75 kW), while the old 239 CID (3.9 L) Flathead V8 remained with 110 hp (82 kW).



Did Cadillac make a flathead V8?


In 1937, the new monobloc flathead gained 24 cu in (390 cc) in Cadillac V-8 models to 346 cu in (5.7 L), while the LaSalle straight-8 of 1934–1936 that originated from Oldsmobile actually was replaced with the 1936 smaller 322 cu in (5.3 L) version at 125 hp (93 kW).



Did Chevy make a flathead V8?


Buick and Chevrolet never had flathead engines.



What killed the flathead engine?


The biggest failure of the Ford V8 flathead is the routing of the exhaust ports through the water jackets inside the engine block. Inline flatheads have the exhaust ports routed directly to the outside of the block.



What was the best V8 motor ever built?


These are the 14 best V8 engines ever made.

  • TVR AJP8.
  • Toyota UZ-FE.
  • GM LS.
  • Chrysler Hemi.
  • Ford flathead.
  • Bentley L-Series (L410)
  • Rover.
  • Mercedes-AMG M156.



What's the smallest V8 Ford ever made?


Once it was introduced. And you couldn't get a 410 cubic inch V8 in that but my 67 Parklane brome has one underhood.



Is the Ford Flathead V8 a good engine?


The engine was named on Ward's list of the 10 best engines of the 20th century. It was a staple of hot rodders in the 1950s, and it remains famous in the classic car hobbies even today, despite the huge variety of other popular V8s that followed.



Did Dodge make a flathead V8?


The flathead engine came in four-,six-, and eight-cylinder configurations and varying displacement, with both a cast iron and cast aluminum cylinder head. It was installed in Chrysler, DeSoto, Dodge and Plymouth branded vehicles.


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.