Latest Posts Under: History
The third-gen Chrysler Hemi, debuting in 2003, packed more punch and less pollution thanks to its coil-on-plug ignition system with two spark plugs per cylinder. By 2009, this engine was flexing its muscles with up to 390hp, aided by variable valve timing and a Multi-Displacement System. The 5.7-liter Hemi was a hit, but Chrysler didn’t stop there—it rolled out a 6.4-liter beast dubbed “Apache,” capable of a whopping 470hp. The Hemi lineup was a powerhouse parade of innovation and horsepower glory!
The Chevy Big Blocks W series, evolving into the Mark IV, might be the best V8 ever—just don’t tell the small blocks. Nicknamed the “rat motor” by GM insiders, this engine is a beast at 685 lbs. Its revamped valve configuration and “porcupine design” improve power at high rpm, making it perfect for racing. Despite its serious power, it’s got a playful side, borrowing bits from its “W” predecessor like the Moraine aluminum bearings and side oiling system. It’s the engine equivalent of a heavyweight champ with a sense of humor.
The second-generation El Camino (1964-1967) was a Chevelle’s twin, chopped at the B-pillars to create a utility vehicle with a flair for power. Starting modestly with six-cylinder engines, it quickly beefed up with V8 muscle, peaking at a 396-cubic-inch beast by ’67. It evolved with each model year, from power boosts to snazzy upgrades like a collapsible steering column and front disc brakes. By 1967, it was a stylish workhorse, versatile enough for hauling hay or hustling on the highway.
