When did they stop making the 440?
The Chrysler 440 big-block V8 was discontinued in 1978; factory production of the 440 ended with the 1978 model year.
The question asks when this iconic Mopar engine ceased to be produced at the factory. The 440, a cornerstone of the late-1960s muscle-car era, found its end in the face of tightening emissions regulations and evolving fuel-economy standards in the mid-to-late 1970s. After 1978, new factory-built 440s were no longer offered in production cars, though enthusiasts and aftermarket suppliers continue to work with 440-based powerplants today.
A quick history of the 440 big-block
The 440 cubic inch V8 was Chrysler’s flagship big-block powerplant, introduced in 1966 and used across many Morrison Mopar platforms, including Dodge, Plymouth, and Chrysler-badged models. It powered a wave of performance cars in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with notable high-performance variants and options that helped define the era’s muscle-car culture.
Key milestones in the 440’s production
Below is a concise timeline of the engine’s factory life, including its introduction, standout variants, and its retirement from new-car production.
- 1966: The 440 big-block debuts and becomes available in several Mopar platforms, establishing itself as a core performance option.
- 1969–1971: The 440 Six-Pack option appears on select high-performance models, featuring three two-barrel carburetors for enhanced breathing and power.
- 1972–1974: Emissions controls and mid-cycle updates impact horsepower ratings, but the 440 remains a staple in many performance cars.
- 1975–1978: Output continues to be reduced due to tightening regulations and fuel-economy concerns; factory production of the 440 ends with the 1978 model year.
This timeline shows the 440’s rise during the muscle-car heyday, its adaptation to regulatory changes, and its eventual retirement from factory-new offerings in 1978.
Why the 440 mattered in the Mopar story
What to know if you’re restoring or collecting
For restorers and collectors, identifying a factory 440 involves looking at engine casting numbers, model-specific options like the 440 Magnum badge or the 6-Pack tri-carb setup, and the vehicle’s original build sheet. A number of aftermarket suppliers continue to offer crate and rebuilt 440 powerplants, but authentic, period-correct components and documentation add value for authenticity fans and judges at concours events.
Summary
The 440's factory life spanned roughly from 1966 to 1978, a period that captured the peak and decline of the American muscle-car era. Its end reflects broader industry shifts toward smaller, cleaner engines, yet its legacy endures in the enduring interest of collectors, restorers, and Mopar enthusiasts who celebrate its thunderous presence on American roads.
