What year did Dodge make the 440 engine?
The Dodge 440 engine is a legendary powerplant that has been a staple of Dodge's lineup for decades. This high-performance V8 engine first made its debut in 1966 and quickly became a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts. In this article, we'll explore the history and significance of the Dodge 440 engine.
The Birth of the Dodge 440
The Dodge 440 engine was introduced in 1966 as a replacement for the previous 413 cubic inch V8 engine. The 440 was a larger, more powerful engine that was designed to compete with the big-block offerings from other automakers. The 440 was available in a variety of Dodge models, including the Charger, Coronet, and Dart, and quickly became a popular choice for performance-minded drivers.
The Dodge 440 in Action
The Dodge 440 engine was known for its impressive power and performance. The engine produced up to 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful engines available in its time. The 440 was also known for its durability and reliability, with many engines lasting for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.
The Dodge 440 engine was a popular choice for drag racing and other high-performance applications. Many Dodge enthusiasts have modified their 440-equipped vehicles to produce even more power, with some engines capable of producing over 500 horsepower.
The Legacy of the Dodge 440
The Dodge 440 engine has left a lasting legacy in the automotive world. The engine was produced for over 20 years, from 1966 to 1978, and was a staple of Dodge's lineup during the height of the muscle car era. Even today, the Dodge 440 is still highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and many classic Dodge models equipped with the 440 engine are highly valuable.
In conclusion, the Dodge 440 engine is a true icon of American muscle car history. Its powerful performance, durability, and legacy have cemented its place as one of the most legendary engines ever produced. Whether you're a Dodge enthusiast or a fan of classic American muscle, the Dodge 440 is a name that will always be remembered.
How much horsepower does a 440 V-8 have?
It came standard with a 383 cubic inch (6.3L) V8 producing 335 horsepower (hp). Performance enthusiasts could opt for the 440 Six-Barrel (390 hp) or the legendary 426 HEMI V8, making 425 hp and 490 lb -ft of torque.
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. |
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What year did the 440 come out?
The Chrysler 440 engine debuted in 1966. It was a big-block V8 engine from the RB engine family and was used in a variety of Dodge, Plymouth, and Chrysler vehicles, from muscle cars to luxury sedans and motorhomes.
- Debut year: 1966
- Engine family: Part of the RB (raised block) engine family
- Vehicle applications: Included models like the Dodge Charger R/T, Plymouth GTX, and Chrysler 300
When did Chrysler stop making the 440 engine?
1978
The 440 cu in (7.2 L) RB was produced from 1965 until 1978, making it the last version of the Chrysler RB block.
