What year did the Dodge 400 come out?
There is no widely recognized Dodge model officially released under the name “Dodge 400.” If you’ve seen the number used in connection with Dodge, it more often refers to an engine displacement or a regional/trim designation rather than a standalone model year. The best match to a production Dodge item associated with the number 400 is a Mopar engine, not a separate Dodge car model.
What people might be thinking of when they mention "Dodge 400"
Below are the most common explanations for the name, which can help distinguish a model release from other uses of the number 400.
Engine displacement (400 cubic inches)
- The 400 cubic-inch V8 is a Mopar big-block engine that was used across various Dodge, Plymouth, and Chrysler models during the 1970s. It is often mentioned by enthusiasts as “the 400,” but it is an engine option, not a separate Dodge model.
The presence of a 400-cubic-inch engine in a Dodge vehicle does not imply there was a distinct Dodge 400 model year; it reflects the engine choice available on several cars of that era.
Regional or dealer designations
- In some markets or dealer configurations, the number 400 appeared as a trim or option code. These uses were not standardized as an official Dodge model line with a single release year.
These regional or option-code references can be easy to misinterpret as a dedicated model when scanning historical ads or catalogs.
Common misnamings or memory mix-ups
- Car enthusiasts sometimes confuse “400” with other Mopar performance names (such as the 440) or with model names from nearby years. There was no standalone Dodge model officially labeled simply “400.”
When encountering the term, it’s helpful to cross-check the body style, year, VIN, or engine code to determine what the reference actually describes.
When did the 400 engine appear and how long was it used?
While there isn’t a Dodge model named “400,” the 400 cubic-inch V8 was introduced during the Mopar big-block era and was used across multiple Dodge and related brands in the 1970s. This engine was part of the broader Mopar lineup through the mid-to-late 1970s, with variations remaining in service as emissions controls evolved.
In practical terms, if you’re researching a Dodge vehicle from that era, you’ll likely encounter the 400 engine as an option rather than a vehicle name. The exact years can vary by model and market, but the engine’s prominence is generally tied to the early to mid-1970s through the late 1970s.
What to check if you’re researching a Dodge from that era
To verify whether a vehicle is a true “400” model or simply equipped with a 400 engine, use these steps.
- Examine the vehicle identification number (VIN) and engine stamping to confirm both model year and engine type. An engine code can help verify whether the car used a 400 cubic-inch V8.
- Consult original Dodge or Chrysler dealer catalogs, press releases, and showroom brochures from the era for precise naming and option packages.
Cross-referencing multiple sources—including period magazines, dealer literature, and online archives—helps clarify whether you’re looking at a true model release or an engine/option description from that time.
Summary
The Dodge 400 does not exist as a standalone production model with a specific release year. The number is more commonly associated with a 400 cubic-inch Mopar V8 engine used in several Dodge and other Mopar vehicles during the 1970s, or with regional/option codes rather than a distinct Dodge car line. If you have a particular vehicle in mind, sharing details like the body style, region, or VIN can help pinpoint the exact year and configuration.
Are Dodge magnums rare?
Yes, Dodge Magnums are considered rare, especially specific high-performance models like the SRT-8 and older 1970s versions. While thousands were produced during the 2005-2008 model years, finding one in good condition can be challenging due to a short production run and limited survival rate, with some versions like the 2008 SRT-8 being exceptionally scarce.
You can watch this video to learn why the Dodge Magnum SRT8 is a rare station wagon: 59sSRT DADYouTube · Aug 13, 2025
Factors making the Magnum rare
This video discusses the rarity of Dodge Magnums: 54sMarspeedYouTube · Jul 31, 2021
- Short Production Run: The modern Magnum (2005-2008) was produced for only four years, and its discontinuation was a result of a declining market for wagons and the success of the Charger.
- High-Performance Models: The performance-oriented Magnum SRT-8 was produced for just three model years (2006-2008) with a total production of only 4,129 units, making it the rarest version.
- Survival Rate: Finding a well-maintained example can be difficult, as many were used as daily drivers and some may have been modified.
- Older Generations: The first-generation 1978-1979 Dodge Magnum, particularly the GT and Magnum Force models, are considered very rare and are hard to find in good condition.
What year did Dodge make the 400 engine?
1972
The 400 cu in (6.6 L) B engine was introduced in 1972 to replace the venerable 383, and were power-rated via the net (installed) method. Chrysler increased the bore size of the 383 to create the 400.
How much horsepower does a 1983 Dodge 400 have?
94
Dodge 400 can cruise at 50 miles per hour while using only 13.5 of its 94 total horsepower.
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How much horsepower does a 1977 Dodge 400 have?
1977 Dodge Royal Monaco Brougham V-8 400 c.i. 190 h.p. automatic 3 speed.
