327 Engine - The Mighty Mouse
The exact date that the first 327 engine drew its first breath is uncertain, so we proclaim today, 3/27, as a day to CELEBRATE this milestone Corvette engine!
The 327 cu. in. V8 engine was introduced in the 1962 Corvette with a 4” bore and a 3.25” stroke. Originally known as the “Mighty Mouse” motor, after the popular 1960s cartoon character, the 327 eventually became known just as “Mouse.” Power ranged from 210 hp to 375 hp depending on the choice of carburetor or fuel injection, camshaft, cylinder heads, pistons and intake manifold.
The 327 engine as seen in the 1964 World's Fair Corvette
The Most Powerful Small Block V8
For More Than 35 Years
In 1964, peak horsepower increased to 365 hp for the now dubbed L-76 version, and 375 hp for the fuel injected L-84 respectively, making the L-84 the most powerful naturally aspirated, single-cam, production small block V8 until the appearance of the 385 hp, 385 lb•ft Generation III LS6 in 2001.
Challenging The Big Blocks
A tribute to its longevity and trustworthiness, the stalwart and relatively common 1965-1968 L79 327-350 hp engine could give many big blocks a run for their money. In 1966 the 327 began being offered by Checker Taxi Cabs as an option. The Avanti II and its successors were also powered by the 327 and later versions of the small-block V8. In 1968, the 327 was exported to Australia for use in the Holden HK Monaro GTS327.
From the driver’s seat, prolonged exposure to the sound and cat-like response of a 327 is known to have afflicted many with a lifelong passion for the Corvette. Among Corvette Lovers, 3/27 is truly a day to celebrate.