The Chevrolet 409 engine was primarily available in full-size Chevrolet cars and trucks from 1961 to 1965. The most famous models equipped with this powerful V8 were the Impala and the Bel Air. It was also an option in the Biscayne and certain light-duty trucks. The 409 is an iconic "W-block" big-block engine, celebrated for its performance during the peak of the American muscle car era and immortalized in the Beach Boys song "409."
This engine wasn't just a single offering; it evolved over its production run. Initially introduced as a 360 horsepower truck engine, it was quickly adopted for passenger cars. The most potent versions, available in 1962-1963, produced an impressive 425 horsepower from a single four-barrel carburetor. This high-output version featured solid lifters and a high-lift camshaft, making it a favorite for drag racing.
Beyond the well-known passenger cars, the 409 was also a rare option in the Chevrolet Corvette for the 1963 model year, though very few were built. Its primary home, however, was in the full-size Chevrolets, where it offered a blend of tire-shredding power and family-car practicality.
The following table outlines the key specifications for the passenger car versions of the 409:
| Model Year | Displacement | Carburetion | Horsepower (hp) | Torque (lb-ft) | Notable Applications |
|---|
| 1961 | 409 cu in (6.7L) | 1x4-barrel | 360 | 409 | Impala, Bel Air |
| 1962 | 409 cu in (6.7L) | 2x4-barrel | 380 | 420 | Impala SS |
| 1962-1963 | 409 cu in (6.7L) | 2x4-barrel | 409 | 420 | Impala SS, Bel Air |
| 1963-1964 | 409 cu in (6.7L) | 1x4-barrel | 400 | 425 | Impala, Corvette (rare) |
| 1964-1965 | 409 cu in (6.7L) | 1x4-barrel | 340 | 440 | Impala, Trucks (lower compression) |
By 1965, the 409 was phased out in favor of Chevrolet's new Mark IV big-block engine, the 396. However, its legacy as a powerful and charismatic engine ensures it remains a sought-after piece of American automotive history.
