Overview of the 427-Cubic-Inch Crate Engine
The 427-cubic-inch crate engine has evolved significantly over the years. Initially released as a big block engine by Ford and Chevrolet, the 427 made its mark in racing, particularly in the 1960s when Ford’s 427 big block dominated tracks worldwide. It included a notable single overhead cam (SOHC) variant, called the “Cammer,” which was banned from NASCAR in 1964. While Ford’s 427 big blocks were widespread, the Chevrolet 427 big block is considered one of the rarest engines in the Chevy lineup.
Ford’s 427 Boss Crate Engine
Ford created the FE-series of big block V8 engines starting in 1958, available in various displacements including 427 cubic inches. Among its versions, the Side-Oiler was built for endurance racing. Although the original 427 FE is no longer in production, the 427 Boss crate engine carries forward this legacy, offering impressive horsepower.
Ford Performance markets the 427 Boss as a “535 HP” engine, but its outputs can peak at 543 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 540 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. Constructed with robust components like forged internals and aluminum cylinder heads, it boasts substantial lift and duration from its hydraulic roller camshaft.
This crate engine is sold in long block form and comes with components like valve covers and oil pans. However, it doesn’t include a flywheel, distributor system, or intake manifold. Ford recommends using an Edelbrock Super Victor intake manifold and a 770-cfm carburetor for optimal performance.
Roush Performance’s 427 Crate Engines
Roush Performance presents three variants of the small-block Ford-based 427 V8 crate engines, all exceeding 500 horsepower. The lineup includes the 427 SR with 510 HP, the 427 R delivering 550 HP, and the 427 IR producing up to 560 HP and 540 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel.
The Roush 427 IR features a durable cast-iron block, CNC-ported aluminum heads, and a robust rotating assembly. Notably, it comes as a complete turn-key engine with a two-year or 24,000-mile warranty. However, prospective buyers should note that its high-performance nature may result in excess noise and other characteristics not covered by the warranty, and it may not be street-legal.
GM Performance’s 480-Horsepower Big-Block 427
Chevrolet’s second-generation 427 was introduced in 1966, famously powering the 1967 Corvette Convertible. Although the L88 427 was rated lower in power at the time—435 hp—it had the potential for much more, eventually reaching upwards of 600 HP.
While Chevy’s big blocks largely vanished from production in the 1970s, the company still provides a modernized version through GM Performance. The ZZ427/480 HP crate engine achieves 480 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 490 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm. Its features include forged internals, a dual-plane intake manifold, and aluminum heads with sizeable intake and exhaust valves.
BluePrint Engines’ LS Small-Block 427 Crate Engines
BluePrint Engines has 15 variations of its LS-compatible 427-crate engine, starting at 540 horsepower. Naturally-aspirated models can reach up to 605 horsepower, while supercharged units provide an exhilarating 800 horsepower.
The top-tier Pro Series engine boasts 605 horsepower and 565 lb-ft of torque. Built on a robust LSX-style cast iron block, it features impressive durability-enhancing elements. For those seeking even more power, the supercharged version of the 427 crate engine generates 800 horsepower through its advanced induction system.
Nelson Racing Engines’ 2,000-Horsepower 427
Nelson Racing Engines (NRE) offers a range of LS-derived 427 cubic inch crate engines, starting with a minimum of 650 horsepower. The pinnacle of their offerings is the 2,000-horsepower Warrior Series NRE Twin-Turbo Alien LS 427, designed primarily for track performance, with limited street usability.
This formidable engine features a custom-designed Dart Machinery cast-iron block, among other high-performance internals. With fully CNC-ported cylinder heads, a specialized intake manifold, and a twin-turbocharger system, it stands as one of NRE’s most powerful creations.
