The Chrysler Big Block engine has long been a cornerstone of American automotive performance, renowned for its tremendous power output and legendary status in the world of muscle cars, performance vehicles, and motorsport. Introduced by Chrysler in the 1950s, the Big Block engine family was designed to offer unprecedented torque and horsepower for the heavy-duty demands of trucks, muscle cars, and racing applications.
History and Development of the Chrysler Big Block Engine
The Pre-Big Block Era: Chrysler’s Early V8 Engines
Before Chrysler introduced its Big Block engines, the company had already established a reputation for producing high-performance engines, including its famous Hemi V8s. However, these early V8s were predominantly used in luxury vehicles, and while they delivered impressive horsepower, they lacked the versatility and size needed for more performance-oriented applications, such as muscle cars and heavy-duty trucks.
Chrysler’s first attempt at developing a larger, more powerful V8 engine came in the form of the Chrysler “B” series engines, which debuted in the mid-1950s. These engines were characterized by their larger displacement compared to smaller V8 engines like Chrysler’s “A” series (commonly referred to as the “small-block” engines). While the “B” engines were certainly more powerful, they still didn’t meet the extreme torque and power demands that the burgeoning muscle car market called for.
The Birth of the Chrysler Big Block: The “RB” Series Engines
In 1958, Chrysler introduced its “RB” (Raised Block) series V8 engines, which marked the birth of the Big Block family. The RB engines were designed to offer more displacement and better torque characteristics than their predecessors. With a new engine block, larger bore sizes, and longer strokes, the “RB” engines were an immediate success, providing much more power and torque than anything Chrysler had previously offered. This made them ideal for use in both large vehicles like trucks and full-sized sedans, as well as high-performance muscle cars.
The “RB” designation came from the raised deck height of the engine block, which allowed for increased displacement by utilizing larger cylinder bores and longer stroke lengths. Chrysler’s first Big Block, the 361-cubic inch (5.9-liter) V8, was soon followed by larger variants, and the RB engine family became a cornerstone of Chrysler’s muscle car and performance engine lineup.
The 426 Hemi and the Rise of the Big Block in Motorsports
Perhaps the most famous iteration of the Chrysler Big Block engine was the 426 Hemi V8. While the 426 Hemi technically wasn’t part of the RB series (it was considered a separate engine family), its introduction in 1964 solidified the Big Block’s reputation for brute power and high performance. The 426 Hemi was developed specifically for NASCAR and other motorsports, where its massive power output and torque made it a dominant force on the racetrack.
By the 1970s, the Chrysler Big Block engine lineup was a force to be reckoned with in both street performance and racing. The development of performance variants of the Big Block allowed Chrysler to compete with the likes of Ford and Chevrolet in the muscle car wars, with vehicles such as the Dodge Charger, Plymouth Road Runner, and Dodge Challenger offering Big Block engine options.
The End of the Big Block Era
The 1970s and early 1980s saw the gradual phase-out of the traditional Big Block engines due to changing emissions regulations, rising fuel prices, and increased focus on fuel efficiency. Chrysler, like many other automakers, moved toward smaller, more fuel-efficient engines during this period. However, the legacy of the Chrysler Big Block engine lived on, and it remains an iconic part of American automotive history.
In the 1980s, Chrysler began transitioning to smaller, more fuel-efficient engines, with a focus on fuel injection, emissions control, and modern engine technology. Despite this, the Big Block’s place in history was assured, and it continues to be revered by car enthusiasts, particularly those with a penchant for classic muscle cars.
Defining Characteristics of a Big Block Engine
The term “Big Block” refers to an engine that is physically larger and more powerful than “Small Block” engines. Although each manufacturer has its own specific criteria for what constitutes a Big Block, there are a few key features that generally define a Big Block engine:
- Larger Displacement: Big Block engines typically have larger displacement than Small Block engines, often exceeding 350 cubic inches (5.7 liters). Chrysler’s Big Block engines, for instance, ranged from 361 cubic inches (5.9 liters) to over 500 cubic inches (8.2 liters).
- Larger Bore and Stroke: Big Block engines have a larger bore diameter and longer stroke compared to Small Block engines. This allows them to produce more torque and power, which is essential for high-performance applications.
- Heavier and Bulkier: The larger dimensions of Big Block engines make them physically heavier and bulkier than their Small Block counterparts. This means that Big Block engines require larger engine bays to be fitted into vehicles.
- More Torque: Big Block engines are known for their ability to generate more torque at lower RPMs compared to Small Block engines. This is one of the key reasons why they are so well-suited for heavy-duty applications like trucks and large cars, as well as performance cars that require quick acceleration.
- Designed for Performance: Unlike smaller engines, Big Block engines are often designed to provide maximum performance in terms of horsepower and torque. This is one of the main reasons why they became so popular in muscle cars, drag racing, and motorsports.
The Chrysler Big Block Engine Specifications
Over the years, Chrysler produced numerous variations of its Big Block engines. These engines were available in various displacements and configurations, with the most famous being the 426 Hemi. Below is a breakdown of some of the most important Big Block engine specifications from Chrysler:
361 Cubic Inch V8 (RB)
- Displacement: 361 cubic inches (5.9 liters)
- Bore x Stroke: 4.19 inches x 3.38 inches
- Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 (varied by application)
- Horsepower: 265–300 hp
- Torque: 400–425 lb-ft
- Fuel Delivery: Carburetor
The 361 was the first Big Block engine produced by Chrysler and was used primarily in larger vehicles such as full-size sedans and trucks.
383 Cubic Inch V8 (RB)
- Displacement: 383 cubic inches (6.3 liters)
- Bore x Stroke: 4.25 inches x 3.38 inches
- Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 (varied by application)
- Horsepower: 290–330 hp
- Torque: 400–430 lb-ft
- Fuel Delivery: Carburetor
The 383 Big Block was one of the most popular engines in Chrysler’s lineup, offering a balance of power and torque. It was used in a variety of vehicles, including the Dodge Charger and Plymouth GTX.
426 Hemi V8
- Displacement: 426 cubic inches (7.0 liters)
- Bore x Stroke: 4.25 inches x 3.75 inches
- Compression Ratio: 10.25:1 (varied by application)
- Horsepower: 425–475 hp
- Torque: 490–500 lb-ft
- Fuel Delivery: Dual Carburetors (in factory versions)
The 426 Hemi is undoubtedly the most famous of the Chrysler Big Block engines. Its massive power output and reputation for racing success made it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts and racers alike. Its distinctive hemispherical combustion chamber design allowed it to achieve high performance, especially in motorsports.
440 Cubic Inch V8 (RB)
- Displacement: 440 cubic inches (7.2 liters)
- Bore x Stroke: 4.32 inches x 3.75 inches
- Compression Ratio: 10.1:1
- Horsepower: 375 hp
- Torque: 480 lb-ft
- Fuel Delivery: Carburetor
The 440 engine became Chrysler’s flagship Big Block engine and was widely used in performance-oriented vehicles, especially those seeking more low-end torque and high-speed performance.
Additional Big Block Options
In addition to the engines listed above, Chrysler also developed a variety of other Big Block engines throughout the years, including the 400 and 440 Magnum engines, which were used in trucks, muscle cars, and other high-performance applications.
What Cars Were Powered by the Chrysler Big Block?
The Chrysler Big Block engine family powered some of the most iconic muscle cars and performance vehicles in automotive history. These vehicles included:
Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger, one of the most recognizable muscle cars of all time, was available with several Big Block engines, including the 383, 426 Hemi, and 440 engines. The Charger was one of the primary vehicles that showcased the raw power of Chrysler’s Big Block engines.
Plymouth Road Runner
The Plymouth Road Runner, another classic muscle car, was available with the 383, 440, and 426 Hemi engines. It quickly became a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts for its combination of affordability and performance.
Dodge Dart
The Dodge Dart, particularly in its performance-oriented versions like the Dart GT, was available with a range of Big Block engines, including the 383 and 440 engines. The Dart was a smaller, more compact platform compared to other muscle cars, which made it a unique choice for Big Block power.
Plymouth GTX
The Plymouth GTX, one of Chrysler’s most performance-focused vehicles, was available with the 440 and 426 Hemi Big Block engines. It was designed to compete with other high-performance muscle cars like the Chevrolet Chevelle SS and the Ford Mustang.
Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300, a full-size luxury sedan, was also available with Big Block engines, particularly the 440 and 383 V8s. The 300 offered a mix of luxury and performance, making it an attractive choice for buyers who wanted power without sacrificing comfort.
Dodge Coronet
The Dodge Coronet was another iconic vehicle available with the 383, 440, and 426 Hemi Big Block engines. It was a staple of the muscle car era and offered exceptional performance at an affordable price.
What Are Chrysler Big Blocks Best Known For?
The Chrysler Big Block engine family is best known for the following attributes:
- Unmatched Power: The Big Block engines were designed to produce immense amounts of horsepower and torque, making them ideal for performance applications such as drag racing and street racing.
- Muscle Car Dominance: Big Block engines powered some of the most legendary muscle cars of the 1960s and 1970s, including the Dodge Charger, Plymouth Road Runner, and Dodge Challenger.
- Racing Success: The 426 Hemi, in particular, is best known for its success in NASCAR and other motorsports. Its unique hemispherical combustion chamber allowed it to generate enormous amounts of power and dominate the track.
- Torque and Low-End Power: Big Block engines are particularly noted for their torque production, especially at lower RPMs. This made them ideal for vehicles that required fast acceleration and sustained high speeds.
Conclusion
The Chrysler Big Block engine remains one of the most iconic engine families in automotive history. From its introduction in the 1950s to its place in some of the most famous muscle cars and racing cars of the 1960s and 1970s, the Big Block engine helped define the era of American performance. Whether it was the brute power of the 426 Hemi or the all-around performance of the 383 and 440, Chrysler’s Big Block engines have earned a lasting place in automotive lore. Today, they continue to be celebrated by muscle car enthusiasts, collectors, and racing fans, cementing their legacy as one of the most powerful and influential engine families in history.