The muscle car era was a golden age for automotive enthusiasts, marked by a remarkable array of powerful engines produced by Mopar. Dodge, Plymouth, and Chrysler vehicles of the time were equipped with some of the most iconic powertrains in history. Here are ten of the greatest Mopar engines that left a lasting legacy on the road and in the hearts of muscle car fans.
426 Hemi V8
The 426 Hemi V8 is often hailed as the king of muscle car engines. Known for its superior power and performance, this engine was introduced in 1964 and quickly became a favorite among drag racers. The 426 Hemi was capable of producing around 425 horsepower, making it a force to be reckoned with both on the street and the track.
Its hemispherical combustion chambers gave it an edge in efficiency, while its robust design ensured durability. Cars like the 1970 Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Barracuda became legends largely due to the 426 Hemi under their hoods.
440 Six Pack V8
The 440 Six Pack V8 was another powerhouse that defined the muscle car era. This engine featured a trio of two-barrel carburetors, which significantly increased its air intake and horsepower. Known for its impressive torque, the 440 Six Pack was a popular choice for those seeking raw power without the expense of a Hemi.
Models such as the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner and Dodge Super Bee showcased the capabilities of the 440 Six Pack, providing enthusiasts with a thrilling driving experience defined by its aggressive acceleration and formidable top-end speed.
383 Magnum V8
The 383 Magnum V8 was the engine of choice for many Mopar muscle cars due to its balance of power and affordability. Producing around 335 horsepower, it was a staple in models like the Dodge Charger and Plymouth GTX. Its versatility made it a popular option for those who wanted performance without breaking the bank.
With a high-performance camshaft and four-barrel carburetor, the 383 Magnum delivered a satisfying combination of speed and reliability, making it an enduring favorite among muscle car enthusiasts.
340 Six Barrel V8
The 340 Six Barrel V8, also known as the Six Pack, was an engine that proved big power could come in compact packages. This small-block engine was celebrated for its high-revving capabilities and agility, making it perfect for lighter cars like the Plymouth Duster and Dodge Dart Swinger.
With a set of three two-barrel carburetors, the 340 Six Barrel produced up to 290 horsepower, offering an exhilarating driving experience that combined speed with precision handling.
360 LA V8
The 360 LA V8 was a versatile engine that found its way into numerous Mopar vehicles during the 1970s. Known for its durability and ease of modification, it became a favorite among enthusiasts looking to customize their rides. With a stock horsepower rating around 245, it offered a solid foundation for performance enhancements.
Cars like the Dodge Aspen and Plymouth Volaré benefited from the 360 LA’s blend of reliability and power, and its adaptability ensured its popularity long after the muscle car era had ended.
413 Max Wedge V8
The 413 Max Wedge V8 was a powerhouse engine that made a significant impact on drag racing in the early 1960s. With its aggressive camshaft and high-compression design, the 413 Max Wedge could produce up to 420 horsepower, making it a formidable opponent on the track.
Models such as the 1962 Plymouth Savoy and Dodge Polara benefitted from the 413’s immense power, often dominating their competition. Its success in racing cemented its place in the annals of Mopar’s greatest engines.
400 B V8
The 400 B V8 was introduced in the early 1970s as a part of Mopar’s B-engine family. It was designed to offer a balance of power and economy, featuring a lower compression ratio to comply with new emission standards while still delivering strong performance.
Used in cars like the Dodge Charger and Plymouth Fury, the 400 B V8 provided dependable power and was often chosen by those seeking a reliable engine for daily driving without sacrificing the thrill of acceleration.
318 LA V8
The 318 LA V8 was one of Mopar’s most produced engines, known for its reliability and longevity. While not the most powerful engine on the list, its versatility made it a staple in a wide range of vehicles, from the Dodge Dart to the Plymouth Satellite.
Its modest power output, combined with excellent fuel efficiency, made the 318 LA a popular choice for drivers who wanted a dependable engine for both commuting and occasional spirited driving.
225 Slant Six
The 225 Slant Six engine, often overshadowed by its V8 counterparts, was a workhorse known for its durability and efficiency. It earned its name from the 30-degree angle at which it was mounted, allowing for a lower hood line and better balance.
Used in a variety of models, including the Dodge Dart and Plymouth Valiant, the 225 Slant Six provided a reliable and economical option for drivers who valued practicality over raw power. Its simplicity and robustness have made it a beloved engine among classic car enthusiasts.
273 Commando V8
The 273 Commando V8 was Mopar’s entry into the small-block performance market in the mid-1960s. Despite its smaller displacement, it delivered a respectable 235 horsepower and was praised for its spirited performance.
Found in vehicles such as the 1965 Plymouth Barracuda, the 273 Commando offered a lively driving experience, combining nimble handling with a responsive throttle, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more compact muscle car.
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