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What size engine is a Dodge 440?

The Dodge 440 refers to a 440 cubic-inch V8 engine, roughly 7.2 liters in displacement, used by Dodge in the muscle-car era of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

In more detail, the 440 is part of Chrysler's RB big-block family. It powered a range of performance models and came in standard and high-performance variants, including Magnum versions and the triple-carburetor 6-Pack option. Production spanned about 1965 through the early 1970s, with continued use into the mid- to late-1970s in some applications, before emissions rules and changing market conditions shifted focus away from large-displacement engines.

Engine size and architecture

Below are the core characteristics that define the Dodge 440's size and mechanical layout.

Displacement: 440 cubic inches (approximately 7.2 liters)

Engine family: Chrysler RB big-block (raised-block)

Configuration: V8

Notable variants: base 440, 440 Magnum (high-performance variant), and the 6-Pack carburetor option

Common applications: Dodge Charger, Challenger, Coronet, Super Bee, and other Dodge models of the era

The 440’s sizable displacement made it a centerpiece for Dodge’s performance lineup, delivering substantial torque and power that defined the era’s drag-strip and street-racing culture.

Performance and historical context

Horsepower and torque for the 440 varied by year, carburetion, and emissions controls. The Magnum variants typically offered higher output than the base 440, with the famous 6-Pack setup delivering peak performance in certain late-1960s and early-1970s models. As regulations tightened in the 1970s, Dodge and other automakers shifted toward smaller engines or more efficient designs, which gradually reduced the presence of large-displacement big-blocks in mass-market cars.

Summary

The Dodge 440 is defined by its 440 cubic-inch displacement (about 7.2 liters), a cornerstone of Chrysler's RB big-block family. It powered many iconic Dodge muscle cars and remains a symbol of the era's horsepower-forward approach. Variants like the Magnum and 6-Pack offered higher performance for enthusiasts and collectors today.

What was the engine specs of the 1973 Dodge 440?

The 1973 Dodge 440 engine was a 7.2L (440 cu in) big-block V8 rated at 275 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It was equipped with a new Carter Thermoquad four-barrel carburetor and a lighter construction than previous versions.
This video explains the specifications of the Chrysler 440 V8 engine: 1mRare Classic Cars & Automotive HistoryYouTube · Apr 27, 2024
Engine specifications

Displacement: 7.27.27.2 L (440440440 cu in)
Horsepower: 275275275 hp at 4,8004 comma 8004,800 rpm
Torque: 380380380 lb-ft at 3,2003 comma 2003,200 rpm
Bore: 4.324.324.32 in (109.7109.7109.7 mm)
Carburetor: Carter Thermoquad four-barrel
Construction: Light wall construction, precision cast-iron block with iron heads

Key changes for 1973

The engine was updated with a new, larger Carter Thermoquad carburetor to replace the previous Holley.
It featured a new, lighter construction compared to earlier models.
The 1973 model year saw a decrease in horsepower from previous versions due to changes for emissions and other regulations.

Was the 440 faster than the 426 Hemi?

The **440 Six-Pack was often faster in stock form, particularly in the quarter mile, but the 426 Hemi had a higher potential for power when modified. Stock 440 Six-Packs generally had better out-of-the-box performance due to how they were tuned and how they hooked up from the line, while the Hemi was a detuned race engine that could be built to produce significantly more power than the 440 with modifications.
You can watch this video to learn about the history and impact of the 426 Hemi: 1mIts Just Cars!YouTube · Jul 31, 2025

Feature	440 Six-Pack	426 Hemi
Stock Performance	Often faster in stock form (e.g., quarter-mile drag racing).	Slower in stock form compared to the 440 Six-Pack.
Power Potential	Lower power potential than the 426 Hemi when both are modified.	Higher power potential when modified, especially with race-spec builds.
Factory Advantage	Lower factory-rated horsepower but with better street-tuned performance.	Higher factory-rated horsepower but often struggled with traction in stock form.
Engine Design	Wedge head engine.	Hemispherical head engine with larger ports and valves.

Is a 383 and a 440 the same block?

So it's just a different animal these are different animals. So that goes in regards also to the other blocks you have your 440.

How much horsepower does a Dodge 440 have?

The horsepower for a Dodge 440 engine varies by model and configuration, with the common 440 Magnum rated at 375 hp and the Six Pack version with triple carburetors producing 390 hp. Higher horsepower figures are achievable through aftermarket modifications, with builds reaching over 500 hp, say HOTROD Network.

You can watch this video to learn how much horsepower a stock 440 can produce: 49sNick's GarageYouTube · Jul 14, 2025
Stock horsepower

440 Magnum: 375 hp with a four-barrel carburetor
440 Six Pack: 390 hp with a triple-carburetor setup

Modified horsepower

Modern modifications and rebuilds often exceed the factory ratings. For example, a well-built 440 can produce over 500 hp.
Reports of modified engines reaching 410 hp, 475 hp, and even over 500 hp with the right combination of parts exist, say YouTube users and HOTROD Network.

This video demonstrates how a modified 440 engine can reach higher horsepower: 59sMopar Connection MagazineYouTube · Mar 13, 2025

Kevin Bennett

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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.