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When was the Dodge 400 made?

The Dodge 400 was a compact car produced by Chrysler Corporation in the early 1980s, but its legacy has largely been overshadowed by more popular models of the era. Despite its relative obscurity, the Dodge 400 played a significant role in Chrysler's efforts to regain its footing in the American automotive market during a challenging economic period.


The Dodge 400's Origins and Specifications


The Dodge 400 was introduced in 1982 as a response to the growing demand for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles in the United States. It was built on Chrysler's K-car platform, which also underpinned the Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant, among other models. The Dodge 400 was available in a variety of body styles, including a two-door coupe, a four-door sedan, and a convertible.


Under the hood, the Dodge 400 was powered by a range of four-cylinder engines, including a 2.2-liter and a 2.6-liter unit. These engines were paired with either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission, depending on the model and trim level. The Dodge 400 was designed to be a practical and affordable transportation option for American families, with a focus on fuel efficiency and reliability.


The Dodge 400's Place in Chrysler's Comeback


The Dodge 400 was introduced at a critical time for Chrysler Corporation. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the company had fallen on hard times, struggling with declining sales, financial troubles, and a tarnished reputation. The Dodge 400, along with other K-car-based models, played a crucial role in Chrysler's efforts to regain its footing in the market.



  • The Dodge 400's compact size and fuel-efficient engines helped it appeal to a growing segment of the American car-buying public that was increasingly concerned about rising gas prices and the need for more economical transportation.

  • The Dodge 400's relatively low price point also made it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers, helping Chrysler to compete with imports and other domestic automakers.

  • The Dodge 400's reliability and durability, combined with Chrysler's efforts to improve the quality of its products, helped to restore consumer confidence in the company's brand.


While the Dodge 400 may not have achieved the same level of popularity as some of Chrysler's other models from the era, such as the Dodge Aries or the Plymouth Reliant, it played a crucial role in the company's comeback and helped to pave the way for its eventual resurgence in the American automotive market.

How much horsepower did the 426 Hemi actually make?


A modern for 426 hemi crate engine is 1000 hp. I bet you could easily get 600 or more without the engine destroying itself. In reality a 1970 426 made closer to 500 hp. It was listed at 425 for insurance purposes.



Did Dodge make a 400 cubic inch motor?


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. Its bore of 4.342-inch (110.3 mm) was the largest used in any production Chrysler V8 at the date of its introduction.



How much horsepower does a 400 V8 have?


This 400 engine was relegated to only produce 185 hp (or less depending on application) for the remainder of its production. These blocks were cast from 1975 through 1977, and were last used in 1978 model year vehicles.



What year did the Dodge 400 come out?


1982
The 400 was introduced for the 1982 model year but renamed and merged into the Dodge 600 lineup just two years later. An improved version of Chrysler's K-cars, it was called the Super K platform.



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.



How many miles per gallon does a 5.7 V8 Ram get?


15 mpg city/22 mpg highway
5.7L HEMI V8 Engine. Fuel Efficiency (4X2): 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway. Fuel Efficiency (4X4): 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway. 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine with eTorque.



What years was the Dodge 440 produced?


Chrysler produced 440-cubic-inch RB engines from 1966 through 1978, with horsepower advancements coming fast in the early years. Prior to 1972, the 440 RB featured cast-iron engine blocks, wedge-shaped heads, and forged steel crankshafts.



How many miles per gallon does a 1983 Dodge 400 get?


For Dodge 400 two-door: 28 EPA EST MPG;* 44 estimated highway.



Was the Dodge 400 a good engine?


The 400 is a great engine for a lot of reasons. Big bore helps not to shroud the valves. Very strong engine blocks. In fact they are the strongest stock block ever made outside the hemi. Low deck is easy to live with in a tight a body. Great rod ratio. For example: A 318 and 340 have a 6.123 rod and a 3.31 stroke.



How many miles per gallon does a 1970 426 Hemi get?


If memory serves, fuel mileage was only about 5 to 7 miles per gallon for the 426 Hemi V8, pretty much across the board for all the models it was used in. I would consider this a low estimate, however. Naturally, those with the optional lower 4.56:1 gears got the worst mileage, but offered the best acceleration.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.