What engine is in a 1949 Dodge Coronet?
The 1949 Dodge Coronet was powered by a flathead inline-six engine, around 217.8 cubic inches, delivering roughly 95 horsepower; there was no factory V8 option in that year’s Coronet lineup.
In the postwar year, Dodge positioned the Coronet as a higher-trim model built around the same durable six-cylinder family, prioritizing reliability and smooth running over performance. This article details the engine’s specifications and its place in Dodge’s 1949 lineup.
Engine specifications
Below are the core specifications that applied to the Coronet’s standard six-cylinder engine.
- Engine type: Inline-six, flathead (L-head)
- Displacement: 217.8 cubic inches (≈3.57 liters)
- Horsepower: approximately 95 hp
- Fuel system: single carburetor
- Configuration: 6 cylinders in a straight line; no overhead cam
- Fuel and induction era: designed for reliability and easy maintenance in the late 1940s
The specifications reflect Dodge’s approach in the immediate postwar period: a sturdy, simple engine that offered dependable performance for family sedans and fleet use, with an emphasis on longevity over peak power.
Context and impact
Position within the Dodge lineup
Within Dodge’s 1949 lineup, the Coronet stood as a more refined, better-appointed option than the standard DeLuxe variants, but it shared the same basic six-cylinder powertrain. The focus was on comfort and usability rather than sporty performance, and the V8 option that would appear in later years was not part of the Coronet offering in 1949.
Historical notes on postwar Dodge engines
Postwar Dodge engines emphasized durability and ease of service. The inline-six was a common thread across many Dodge models of the era, providing straightforward maintenance and predictable performance for a broad customer base. The Coronet’s engine designation and output reflect this strategy, as Dodge prepared its lineup for the 1950s.
Summary
For the 1949 Dodge Coronet, the engine of record was a 217.8 cubic inch flathead inline-six delivering about 95 horsepower, with no factory V8 option that year. The choice underscored Dodge’s emphasis on reliable, low-maintenance power for a premium mid‑range sedan, a formula that shaped the brand’s postwar strategy and influenced its early-1950s offerings.
How much is a 1949 Dodge Coronet worth?
The value of a 1949 Dodge Coronet varies widely, ranging from approximately $3,250 to over $19,000 depending on its condition, mileage, and specific features. A vehicle in good condition with average specifications is often valued around $6,300 to $24,050, with prices for excellent or rare examples being higher and those for project cars being lower.
Factors influencing value
- Condition: A fully restored or exceptionally well-maintained example will be worth significantly more than a project car in need of major repairs.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value, while high mileage can decrease it.
- Body style: Specific trims like the Convertible Coupe can have different value ranges than other body styles.
- Options and modifications: Desirable original options or well-done custom modifications can increase the value, while poor or irreversible modifications can decrease it.
- Market trends: Recent sales data from sites like Hagerty and Classic.com shows a price range of approximately $3,250 to $19,296 for recent sales and comps.
Example values
- Recent auction sale: A 1949 Dodge Coronet Sedan sold for $6,000 on April 24, 2025, via Bring a Trailer.
- Valuation estimates: Some sources estimate that a car in good, average condition might be worth around $24,050, while others show a range of $7,110 - $19,296 based on comparable sales.
- Project car: A 1949 Dodge Coronet project car was listed for $13,900 in January 2024, though the listing was removed.
- Asking price: An asking price of $8,998 was listed by Levi's Auto Sales for a vehicle with 73,213 miles.
What is a Dodge Coronet worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $14,460 for a 1965 Dodge Coronet in good condition with average spec.
What is a Coronet 440?
This model was part of Dodge's R/T (Road and Track) series, which was designed for performance and style. The Coronet 440 R/T featured a 440 cubic inch V8 engine, producing around 375 horsepower.
What engine does a Dodge Coronet have?
The Coronet R/T was available as a two-door hardtop or convertible. The standard engine was Chrysler's largest, the 440 cu in (7.2 L) V8 producing 375 bhp and dubbed the Magnum.
