What year did the 440 engine come out?
The 440 engine, a powerful and iconic automotive powerplant, made its debut in the late 1960s. This high-displacement V8 engine became a staple of American muscle cars and performance vehicles, known for its impressive horsepower and torque output.
The Origins of the 440 Engine
The 440 engine was first introduced by Chrysler Corporation in 1966 as an option for their high-performance models, including the Dodge Charger, Plymouth GTX, and Chrysler 300. The 440 engine was designed to provide a significant power boost over the smaller 383 and 426 Hemi engines that were previously available.
The 440 engine was a large-displacement V8 with a bore and stroke of 4.32 inches by 3.75 inches, resulting in a total displacement of 440 cubic inches (7.2 liters). This massive engine was capable of producing up to 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful production engines of its time.
The Rise of the 440 Engine
The 440 engine quickly gained popularity among performance enthusiasts and became a staple of the muscle car era. It was offered in a variety of Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth models throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, including the Dodge Charger R/T, Plymouth Cuda, and Chrysler 300 Hemi.
The 440 engine's success was due to its combination of power, reliability, and relatively affordable cost. It was a more affordable alternative to the high-performance 426 Hemi engine, which was more expensive and had a reputation for being difficult to maintain.
The Decline and Legacy of the 440 Engine
The 440 engine's reign as a dominant force in the muscle car era came to an end in the mid-1970s, as stricter emissions regulations and the oil crisis led to a decline in high-performance engines. Chrysler discontinued the 440 engine in 1978, marking the end of an era for this iconic powerplant.
Despite its eventual demise, the 440 engine remains a beloved and iconic part of automotive history. Its legacy lives on through the continued popularity of classic muscle cars and the ongoing restoration and modification of these vehicles by enthusiasts around the world.
How much horsepower does a 440 V8 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.
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.
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 was the last year of 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.
