327 Engine prototype Duntov amazing
 

This 327 engine that never got approval. Duntov was brilliant. Facebook

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The Zora Arkus-Duntov 327 HEMI Prototype: The Corvette Engine That Could Have Been
In the 1960s, Zora Arkus-Duntov, the legendary "Father of the Corvette," envisioned pushing the limits of Chevrolet’s small-block V8 engine. One of his most fascinating experiments was the creation of the 327 HEMI prototype engine—a high-revving powerhouse that showcased his innovative spirit and commitment to performance.
-A Revolutionary Design-
The prototype was based on Chevrolet's already impressive 327 cubic inch small-block V8, but with a twist: hemispherical combustion chambers. Inspired by Chrysler's success with their HEMI engines, Duntov sought to combine the HEMI head’s efficiency and power potential with the compact and lightweight Chevy small-block.
The result was a hybrid of sorts, using aluminum hemispherical heads designed by Duntov himself. This setup promised better airflow and higher compression ratios, which could dramatically increase power output while maintaining reliability.
-Impressive Performance on Paper-
The 327 HEMI prototype was never officially rated, but engineers believed it could produce well over 400 horsepower with the right tuning. This would have made it a serious contender in the high-performance world of the mid-1960s, potentially rivaling engines like Chrysler's 426 HEMI and Ford’s 427 SOHC.
-Why It Didn’t Make Production-
Despite its potential, the 327 HEMI was never mass-produced. The primary reason was cost. The complex hemispherical head design was more expensive to manufacture compared to traditional small-block heads, and Chevrolet wasn’t ready to invest in such an ambitious project at the time. Additionally, General Motors’ corporate policy in the mid-1960s limited engine displacement and horsepower for regular production vehicles, which further constrained the engine’s development.
-A Legacy of Innovation-
Though it never made it to the production line, the 327 HEMI prototype was a testament to Duntov’s unrelenting pursuit of performance. His willingness to push boundaries and experiment with unconventional ideas laid the groundwork for the Corvette’s evolution into a world-class sports car.
-A Rare Piece of History-
Today, the 327 HEMI prototype is a fascinating footnote in Chevrolet and Corvette history. It’s a reminder of a time when engineers like Duntov were given the freedom to dream big and explore the limits of what was possible in American performance engineering.
#ZoraArkusDuntov #327HEMI #CorvetteHistory #ChevySmallBlock #AutomotiveInnovation
The Zora Arkus-Duntov 327 HEMI prototype may have been a "what if," but its story embodies the bold creativity that defined the golden age of American muscle and performance. It’s a piece of automotive history that will always fuel the imagination of car enthusiasts.

This one?

Yes sir. I couldnt find the picture but thanks for putting this up.

looks similar to the Ford “Flathead” V8 Engine Fitted With Ardun Heads

Ardun heads were designed by the Ardun Mechanical Corporation of New York which was headed by Zora Arkus-Duntov and his brother, Yura.

I was privileged to be part of a conversation last night that loosely touched on the Grand Sport program, and thus it's needs for improved reliability. It was partially due to this engine (as well as the continued refinement of the Mark IV engine program) that led to the development of the M22 transmission.

At the risk of not speaking factually, I was of the opinion this engine was capable of 500-550hp.

Of course any good thread is deserving of good pics, just for interest

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Where are they now?

They were under rated by for insurance purposes, well known fact. Look at the factory "rating" for the L88's...