Why are 318's low HP and torque?

toolmanmike said

I threw some figures at the computer and came out with 382 hp@ 6000 rpm and 379 tq@ 4500 not bad for bolt on parts and a far cry from the rated 230 hp for the 68' model. (the 77' 318 had only 145 hp.) I used a stock bore 318 with 10.5/1 compression, stock heads with 1.80/1.60 valves, a single plane intake and a 750 cfm carb, and small tube headers, and a 284/495/505 cam. tmm

Click to expand...

Port the heads and increase the intake valve to 1.94 and gain Hp to 450 and torque to 404. Open the headers up and gain to 469/420. It's only a computer simulation but it proves a point. With the right combination, a teen can be a strong performer. Ma Mopar didn't want a race motor when she built the 318. That's what the 340 was for. Kinda like the 361 or even the 383. A good running motor that would last many miles. Not enough HP to kill itself. tmm