What engine came in a Dodge Polara?
The Dodge Polara did not have a single engine; across its production run from 1960 through 1973 it offered multiple V8 options, including the 318, 383, 440, and in some years the legendary 426 Hemi, depending on year and trim.
In this article we explore how engine choices varied over the Polara’s history, why those options mattered to buyers, and how to identify the engine installed in a specific car.
Engine options by era
Here are the major engine families that appeared in Polara models across its years.
- 318 cu in V8 (5.2 L) – a common small‑block option found on several Polara configurations, especially in mid‑to‑late production years.
- 383 cu in V8 (6.3 L) – a popular big‑block choice available on many Polara trims during the 1960s.
- 440 cu in V8 (7.2 L) – a large‑displacement big‑block offered in later Polara models for higher performance.
- 426 Hemi (7.0 L) – a rare, high‑performance option available on select Polara/Monaco variants in some years.
Engine availability depended on year, market, and the level of equipment on the car; not every Polara had every engine option.
Notable performance variants
Some Polara configurations were tuned for higher performance, sometimes sharing powertrains with other high‑trim Mopar full‑size models. The notable examples include:
- Polara 500 and related high‑trim packages occasionally offered the 426 Hemi as an upgrade, reflecting Mopar’s performance emphasis of the era.
- 440 V8 variants—often associated with late‑1960s to early‑1970s Polara models—delivered strong torque and acceleration in heavier Mopar sedans.
As with the basic engine options, the presence of these performance engines was highly dependent on the build year and the specific Polara configuration.
Identifying the engine in your Polara
If you’re trying to determine the exact engine in a specific Polara, use these steps to verify, since the same model name spanned multiple generations and powertrains:
- Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and build sheet or fender tag, which list factory-installed options including the engine code.
- Look for an engine block stamp or data plate on the engine itself; the stamping code corresponds to the original engine option.
- Compare the hood badge and engine bay labeling with Mopar documentation for the year and trim to confirm the intended powertrain.
- Consult the seller’s documentation or a trusted database (e.g., Mopar enthusiast resources) for option codes that match the car’s year and trim package.
Because the Polara spanned many years and trims, cross‑checking multiple sources is the best way to confirm the true engine installed on a particular car.
Summary
The Dodge Polara’s engine lineup evolved over its long run, offering a range of V8 options rather than a single powerplant. Prospective buyers and collectors should expect choices from 318 to 440, with the possibility of a rare 426 Hemi in select years. Always verify the factory codes and documentation for the exact engine in a given Polara instance.
What was the last year of the Dodge Polara?
1973
The Polara eventually replaced the Dodge 880 and was the top vehicle for the brand. It ended with its fourth generation in 1969 that served for five years. The 1973 Polara was the last one as the Dodge brand formed the Monaco for the 1974 car year.
What is the 383 specs on a 1965 Dodge Polara?
Engine power for the 1965 Polara was provided by a 383-cid V-8 engine with 270 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. A 3-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 3-speed automatic or a 4-speed manual being optional.
What engine did the Dodge Polara have?
The Polara 500 was available as either a convertible or a hardtop coupe. The standard engine was the 225 cu in (3.7 L) slant-6 with optional 318 cu in (5.2 L), 383 cu in (6.3 L), and 440 cu in (7.2 L) V8s available.
How much horsepower does a 1964 Dodge Polara have?
Standard power was provided by a 361-cid, 305-hp V-8 engine, with shifting duties handled by either a 3-speed, 4-speed, or Torqueflite automatic transmission. Body styles were limited to 2- and 4-door hardtops and a convertible.
