The Dodge 318 engine, part of Chrysler’s LA-series, is a 5.2-liter V8 that was produced from 1967 to 2002. It has a cast-iron block and heads, producing between 150-230 horsepower depending on the model year and configuration. Known for its durability, it was widely used in trucks, cars, and vans.
The Dodge 318 engine, also known as the Chrysler 318, has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and durable V8 engines ever produced. First introduced in 1967, the 318 remained in production until 2002. It was part of Chrysler’s LA (Light A) engine series, which included other popular V8s like the 273, 340, and 360. The 318 became a staple of Chrysler’s vehicle lineup, powering a wide range of cars, trucks, and vans.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, performance, variations, and historical significance of the Dodge 318 engine, exploring why it has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among automotive enthusiasts.
Contents
History and Development
Chrysler’s LA-series engines replaced the earlier A-series engines, with the 318 debuting in 1967. It was designed as a middle ground between fuel efficiency and power, targeting consumers who needed a versatile V8. The 318 gained traction in the muscle car era, but it was not just limited to high-performance vehicles; it found its way into trucks, vans, and passenger cars due to its flexibility and long-lasting design.
One of the key design goals of the 318 was to create an engine that could run reliably under a variety of conditions, with minimal maintenance and a reasonable balance between fuel economy and horsepower. Over its 35-year production span, it achieved those goals and more, becoming an icon in the automotive world.
Dodge 318 Engine Specs
To fully understand the 318’s versatility and long-lasting appeal, let’s break down its core specifications:
- Configuration: V8
- Displacement: 318 cubic inches (5.2 liters)
- Bore x Stroke: 3.91 in x 3.31 in (99.31 mm x 84.07 mm)
- Compression Ratio: Varied between 8.2:1 and 9.2:1 depending on model year and version
- Block Material: Cast iron
- Head Material: Cast iron
- Valvetrain: Overhead valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
- Fuel System: Originally carbureted, later switched to electronic fuel injection (EFI) in the 1980s
- Horsepower: Ranged from 150 hp to 230 hp depending on year, setup, and emission regulations
- Torque: Typically between 260 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft
- Firing Order: 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
The 318 engine was built for longevity and ease of maintenance. Its simple design, sturdy components, and versatility made it adaptable to various applications, from daily drivers to performance vehicles and work trucks.
Key Versions and Variations
Over its 35-year production span, the Dodge 318 evolved through several versions, each tailored to meet different performance, fuel economy, and emissions requirements.
Carbureted Version (1967-1985)
The initial versions of the 318 were carbureted, with two-barrel and four-barrel carburetors depending on the vehicle model. Earlier models produced more horsepower, with the highest performance variant making around 230 horsepower. However, as emissions standards tightened in the 1970s, output was reduced to comply with regulations.
In the 1970s and early 1980s, Dodge offered high-output versions for some muscle cars and performance trucks, typically using a four-barrel carburetor to increase fuel flow and horsepower.
Electronic Fuel Injection (1985-2002)
By the mid-1980s, Chrysler began transitioning to electronic fuel injection (EFI) to improve fuel efficiency and meet stricter emissions standards. The introduction of EFI allowed for better air-fuel mixture control, optimizing both performance and fuel economy. By 1988, the 318 was fully equipped with EFI across its lineup, which increased reliability and cold-weather performance.
The late 318s were often referred to as “Magnum” engines, particularly in trucks, where they were marketed for their torque output. These versions had improved cylinder heads and intake manifolds, producing more power than the earlier carbureted versions. The 318 Magnum typically produced around 230 horsepower and up to 320 lb-ft of torque, depending on the application.
Performance Characteristics
The 318 is not a high-revving, high-horsepower engine like many of the muscle car V8s from the same era, but it excels in low-end torque and reliability. These characteristics made it particularly popular in trucks and vans, where low-end torque was needed for towing and heavy loads. Even in its high-performance iterations, the 318 maintained its reputation as an engine that could run for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.
Strengths
- Durability: The cast-iron block and heads are well-known for their ability to withstand wear and tear, making the 318 nearly indestructible when properly maintained.
- Low-end Torque: This engine’s torque delivery is excellent, making it ideal for towing and hauling, as well as for muscle car applications that need power off the line.
- Versatility: The 318 powered everything from sedans to pickup trucks and was even used in some industrial applications. Its wide range of use cases speaks to its adaptability.
- Ease of Maintenance: Thanks to its simple OHV design, the 318 is relatively easy to work on, with widely available parts.
Weaknesses
- Limited High-end Performance: The 318 was never designed to be a high-performance engine at the top end. While it could be modified for more power, it didn’t have the raw horsepower numbers that some of its competitors could produce without modification.
- Weight: Being made of cast iron, the 318 is heavy compared to modern aluminum engines, which can slightly hinder vehicle handling in performance-oriented applications.
Modifications and Aftermarket Support
One of the reasons the Dodge 318 remains popular among enthusiasts is the wealth of aftermarket support available for it. Since it was produced for such a long time, there are numerous ways to upgrade and modify the 318, including:
- Cylinder Heads: Switching to aftermarket aluminum cylinder heads can reduce weight and increase airflow, resulting in more horsepower.
- Camshaft: A more aggressive camshaft profile can significantly improve both horsepower and torque, particularly at higher RPMs.
- Exhaust: Installing performance headers and a free-flowing exhaust can unlock additional horsepower by improving the engine’s ability to expel exhaust gases.
- EFI Upgrades: Although later models came with EFI, upgrading to more modern fuel injection systems can further improve power and fuel efficiency.
For those looking to build a high-performance version of the 318, stroker kits are available to increase displacement, while turbocharging or supercharging can also be added for even more power.
Significance in the Automotive World
The Dodge 318’s historical significance cannot be overstated. It was Chrysler’s workhorse V8 for over three decades, powering millions of vehicles and earning a reputation for its durability and reliability. Whether in a Dodge Dart, Plymouth Fury, or a Dodge Ram, the 318 performed admirably, and many examples are still on the road today.
In the world of classic cars, the 318 remains a sought-after engine for restorations and modifications due to its strong foundation and the availability of aftermarket parts. Even with the rise of more modern, efficient engines, the Dodge 318 holds a special place in automotive history as one of the most dependable and versatile engines ever made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about Dodge 318 engine specs –
- What vehicles came with the Dodge 318 engine?
The 318 was used in a wide range of Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth vehicles, including cars like the Dodge Dart, Plymouth Barracuda, and Chrysler New Yorker, as well as trucks like the Dodge Ram and Dodge D-Series. - How much horsepower does a Dodge 318 engine have?
Horsepower varies by model year and configuration, ranging from about 150 hp in emissions-restricted models to 230 hp in high-performance versions, particularly the 318 Magnum. - Is the Dodge 318 a good engine for performance upgrades?
Yes, while the 318 is not as naturally powerful as some other V8 engines, it has excellent aftermarket support, making it easy to upgrade with performance parts like camshafts, heads, and exhaust systems. - What is the fuel economy of the Dodge 318 engine?
Fuel economy depends on the vehicle and setup, but generally, older carbureted models averaged around 12-15 mpg, while later EFI versions could achieve closer to 18-20 mpg. - How long does a Dodge 318 engine typically last?
With proper maintenance, the 318 engine is known to last well over 200,000 miles, with many examples still running strong beyond that point.
Conclusion
The Dodge 318 engine is a testament to the engineering of its era, offering a remarkable balance of reliability, power, and versatility. Whether you’re restoring a classic muscle car or maintaining an old work truck, the 318 continues to be a trusted and beloved engine among car enthusiasts and mechanics alike. Its legacy lives on in the countless vehicles it powered and the passion it continues to inspire in automotive circles.