When did Dodge stop making the 440 engine?
Dodge, the iconic American automaker, discontinued the production of its legendary 440 cubic inch (7.2-liter) V8 engine in the late 1970s. This powerful engine, known for its impressive performance and durability, had been a staple in Dodge's lineup for decades, powering some of the brand's most iconic muscle cars and high-performance vehicles.
The Rise and Fall of the Dodge 440 Engine
The Dodge 440 engine first debuted in 1966 and quickly gained a reputation for its impressive power and torque output. It was available in a variety of Dodge models, including the Charger, Challenger, Coronet, and Dart, among others. The 440 engine was known for its ability to deliver exceptional acceleration and top-end speed, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
However, as the 1970s progressed, the automotive industry faced increasing pressure to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in response to the oil crisis and growing environmental concerns. This led to a gradual decline in the popularity of large-displacement engines like the 440, as automakers began to focus on more fuel-efficient powertrains.
The Final Years of the Dodge 440
Dodge's decision to discontinue the 440 engine was a gradual process that spanned several years. In 1978, the 440 was no longer available in the Dodge Charger, one of the model's most iconic applications. The following year, in 1979, the 440 was removed from the Dodge Magnum lineup as well.
By 1980, the 440 engine had been completely phased out of Dodge's lineup, replaced by smaller, more fuel-efficient V8 engines. This marked the end of an era for the legendary 440, which had been a cornerstone of Dodge's performance heritage for over a decade.
The Legacy of the Dodge 440
Despite its discontinuation, the Dodge 440 engine remains a beloved and iconic part of the brand's history. Its powerful performance and distinctive sound have made it a favorite among classic car enthusiasts, and the 440 continues to be a sought-after engine for restoration projects and high-performance builds.
The legacy of the Dodge 440 engine serves as a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering exceptional performance and driving excitement, even in the face of changing industry trends and regulations. While the 440 may no longer be in production, its impact on the automotive landscape and the hearts of Dodge enthusiasts will continue to be felt for generations to come.
How much HP can a stock 440 block handle?
Although the most powerful factory stock 440 engines produced a rated 390 gross horsepower, the OEM blocks can take power in the 600hp range, and survive practically indefinitely at the 500-550hp level. Mopar built quite a bit of strength into the bottom end of these engines.
What was the last year of the Dodge 440?
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.
What is the most reliable Chrysler engine?
225 Slant Six
When old-timers wax eloquent about bulletproof Chrysler engines, there's a good chance they're referring to the Slant Six. This inline six-cylinder powerplant proved so reliable that it served as a mainstay of Chrysler's engine lineup from 1960 all the way to 1987.
When was the last 426 Hemi made?
The 426 Hemi, in "Street Hemi" form, was produced for use in limited Plymouth and Dodge automobiles from 1966 through 1971, which have become collector's items. For example, a 1971 Plymouth Barracuda Convertible equipped with the 426 Hemi engine sold at auction for US$3.5 million in 2014.
Can you turn a 440 into a Hemi?
Thus neither factory nor race-type Hemi heads can be bolted on or readily adapted to fit plentiful B (383, 400) or RB (413, 440) blocks even though bore spacing, head bolts, most water passages, and other dimensions are the same.
What's the difference between a Dodge 440 and a 440 Magnum?
There ultimately is very little difference between the Mopar 440 and the Mopar 440 Magnum. The Magnum designation simply meant that it was the high-performance version of the V8 engine. An important note is that this also meant it was in a Dodge vehicle.
Is the Chrysler 440 a good engine?
We all know the 440 big-block is the largest displacement V-8 engine built by Chrysler, and when it comes to a combination of torque, power, and drivability, the 440 ranks as one of the best engines ever built.
How much is a Dodge 440 worth?
The value of a 1968 Dodge Coronet 440 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $13,400 for a 1968 Dodge Coronet 440 in good condition with average spec.
How much horsepower did the 440 really have?
And while the Mopar 440 does several things very well, we've always felt that with a few tweaks the engine was capable of well over the 375 horsepower rating it got from the factory.
Was the 440 faster than the 426 Hemi?
Off the showroom floor, a 440 Magnum was faster than a 426 Hemi in the 1/4 mile due to the extra weight of the Hemi. That's not a myth, that's a fact. Once modified, of course Hemi power is almost unlimited.
