1955-1982 Pontiac V-8s – Part 2

The 389 CID version of the Pontiac small journal V-8 is the most famous. It was available beginning in 1959 in various
performance configurations and became the signature V-8 for the Pontiac GTO.

Pontiac Small Journal V8s – Part Two: 326 and 389 CID

Small Crankshaft Journal (3.00″) Engines

Pontiac V8 engines are broken into two categories – small main journal and large main journal engines. All Pontiac engines have the same deck height except for the 1969 303 Trans Am engine and the short-lived 301 and 265 V8s of the early 80s. The early 287-370 CID engines used smaller diameter main journals, with the first two utilizing 2.5″ mains and the 347 and 370 CID using 2.623″ mains. The 301 and 265 reverted to the original 287 CID 2.5″ mains.

    • 326 CID V8 – Available 1963-1967
    • 389 CID V-8 – Available 1959-1967

The large main journal (3.25″) engines were the 421, 428 and 455 V8s.

Engines are listed in the order of introduction.

The 389 CID V8 (1959-1966)

1959 389 CID V-8

For 1959 the V8’s stroke was increased to 3.75″, raising displacement to 388.9 cu in. The 389 would remain the standard Pontiac V8 engine through 1966, offered in a huge variety of outputs ranging from 215 to 368 horsepower. (See chart). The 389 was also the power plant for the Pontiac GTO through 1966.

For 1959 the power was again raised, with the base engines between 215 to 260 hp and the performance engines developing anywhere from 280 to 345 hp. The “High Output” versions were labeled “420-A” and were the first of what later would be called “Super Duty” engines.

1959 Pontiac 389 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Catalina, Star Chief and Bonneville Series Economy V8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 215 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7013069.

Catalina and  Star Chief  Series V-8 – Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 245 @ 4200. Torque: 392 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7013061.

Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series V-8 – Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 235 @ 3600. Torque: 402 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2820S.

Catalina and Star Chief Series  V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.00:1. Horsepower: 280 @ 4400. Torque: 408 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″ Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7013060.

Bonneville Wagon and Bonneville Series Hydra-matic Transmission (Optional all Others):  Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 300 @ 4600. Torque: 420 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 272°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2819S.

Optional 315 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 315 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 425 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7013067 (center Hydramatic) 7013064, (rear) 7013065.

Optional 315 Horsepower High Load Valve Spring V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 315 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 425 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7013067 (center Hydra-matic) 7013064, (rear) 7013065.

Optional 330 Horsepower 420-A V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 333 @4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetor: Rochester 4GC 4-barrel 2819S. Low-restriction dual exhausts and dual-breaker ignition.

Optional “Super Duty 420-A Block” V-8: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 345 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 420 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings.  Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.411″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7013067 (center Hydramatic) 7013064, (rear) 7013065. Low-restriction dual exhausts and dual-breaker ignition.

1960

The 389 was little changed for 1960, however horsepower changed with the base standard transmission 4-barrel engine receiving an upgraded camshaft and 281 hp. On the whole, hp ranged from the 2 barrel economy engine’s 215 to the 389’s 3-2 barrel’s 348 hp.

Beginning in 1960, with the release of the 421 for NASCAR and drag racing, Pontiac also equipped a special series of 389s, called “Super Duty” engines. Super Duty pieces were available over the counter, not factory installed. All SD engines were equipped with special heads with 1.92″ intake and 1.66″ exhaust valves.

1960 Pontiac 389 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Catalina, Ventura and Star Chief Series Economy V8 – Synchromesh Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 215 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7015073.

Catalina, Ventura, Star Chief, Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series Economy V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 230 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7015070.

Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series V8 – Standard Transmission (Optional All Others): Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 235 @ 3600. Torque: 402 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2975S.

Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series V8 – Low Compression Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 281 @ 3600. Torque: 402 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 4GC four-barrel Model 7019073. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2975S.

Catalina, Ventura and Star Chief  Series V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 283 @ 4400. Torque: 413 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″ Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7015070.

Star Chief, Bonneville Wagon and Bonneville Series Hydra-matic Transmission (Optional all Others):  Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 303 @ 4600. Torque: 425 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2976S.

Optional 318 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 318 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7019064 (center Hydra-matic) 7019076, (rear) 7013065.

Optional 333 Horsepower 425-A V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 333 @4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.411″. Carburetor: Carter AFB 2975S (manual transmission) Carter AFB 2976S (Hydra-matic transmission) 

Optional “Super Duty 425-A Block” V-8: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 348 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings.  Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.411″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7019064 (center Hydra-matic) 7019076, (rear) 7013065. Low-restriction dual exhausts and dual-breaker ignition.

1961

Beginning in 1961 the Pontiac V-8s would be called the “Trophy V-8”, to tie it to its many racing victories. The 389 continued with a series of more economical 2-barrel engines added. The regular performance engines remained the same for both 1961 and 1962, however the Super Duty was now a factory option that was available to special dealers and racers.

1962

The regular Pontiac engines in 1962 mimicked the previous year, but certain Super Duty 389s and 421s had 2.02″ intake and 1.76″ exhaust valves, rather than the 1.92″ and 1.66″ valves.

1961 and 1962 Pontiac 389 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Catalina, Ventura and Star Chief Series Economy V8 – With Synchromesh Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 215 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: (1961) Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7019060. (1962) Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020060.

Catalina, Ventura, Star Chief, Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series Economy V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 230 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: (1961) Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7015070; (1962) Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020071.

Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series V8 – Standard Transmission (Optional All Others): Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 235 @ 3600. Torque: 402 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: (1961) Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2975S; (1962) Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3123S.

Catalina Series 267 HP V8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 267 @ 4200. Torque: 405 @ 2400 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020071.

Star Chief Series V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 283 @ 4400. Torque: 413 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″ Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020071.

Bonneville & Grand Prix Series V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission (Optional on Safari, Catalina, and Star Chief): Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 303 @ 4600. Torque: 425 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3300S.

Grand Prix V-8 – Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 303 @ 4600. Torque: 425 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3123S.

Optional 318 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 318 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7020064 (center Hydra-matic- Catalina & Grand Prix) 7020069 (center – Star Chief, Bonneville & Wagon) 7020067, (rear) 7013065.

Optional 333 Horsepower 425-A V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 333 @4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.411″. Carburetor: (1961) Carter AFB 2975S (manual transmission) Carter AFB 2976S (Hydra-matic transmission); (1962) Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3123S (synchromesh) 3300S (Hydra-matic), low-restriction dual exhausts, and dual-breaker ignition.

Optional “Super Duty 425-A Block” V-8: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 348 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings.  Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.411″.

  • 1961 Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7019064 (center Hydra-matic) 7019076, (rear) 7013065.
  • 1962 Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7020064 (center Hydra-matic- Catalina & Grand Prix) 7020069 (center – Star Chief, Bonneville & Wagon) 7020067, (rear) 7013065.

Low-restriction dual exhausts and dual-breaker ignition.

1963

With introduction of the 421 cu. in. HO performance engine, the 333 and 348 hp performance 389s were dropped. As such, the 318 hp 3-2 barrel engine, with its tamer camshaft was the highest performance 389 offered. All other 389s offered the same hp as 1962.  

1963 Pontiac 389 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Catalina, Ventura and Star Chief Series Economy V8 – With Synchromesh Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 215 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: (1961) Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7019060. (1962) Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020060.

Catalina, Ventura, Star Chief, Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series Economy V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 230 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: (1961) Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7015070; (1962) Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020071.

Bonneville and Bonneville Wagon Series V8 – Standard Transmission (Optional All Others): Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 235 @ 3600. Torque: 402 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 252°, Exhaust 252°, Overlap 38°, Lift 0.330″. Carburetor: (1961) Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2975S; (1962) Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3123S.

Catalina Series 267 HP V8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 267 @ 4200. Torque: 405 @ 2400 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020071.

Star Chief Series V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 283 @ 4400. Torque: 413 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″ Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7020071.

Bonneville & Grand Prix Series V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission (Optional on Safari, Catalina, and Star Chief): Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 303 @ 4600. Torque: 425 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3300S.

Grand Prix V-8 – Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 303 @ 4600. Torque: 425 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3123S.

Optional 318 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 318 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.400″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7013063 (center Synchromesh) 7020064 (center Hydra-matic- Catalina & Grand Prix) 7020069 (center – Star Chief, Bonneville & Wagon) 7020067, (rear) 7013065.

Optional 333 Horsepower 425-A V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 333 @4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 283°, Exhaust 293°, Overlap 60°, Lift 0.411″. Carburetor: (1961) Carter AFB 2975S (manual transmission) Carter AFB 2976S (Hydra-matic transmission); (1962) Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3123S (synchromesh) 3300S (Hydra-matic), low-restriction dual exhausts, and dual-breaker ignition.

1964

For 1964, the 389 returned as a high performance engine in the GTO. Two flavors were offered; 325 and 348 HP. This 389 was quite similar to the original 1960 Super Duty 348 hp engine, with the 1.92″ intake and 1.66″ exhaust valves. The 215 hp economy engine was dropped and replaced by the 230 HP auto trans unit from 1963.

1964 Pontiac 389 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Catalina, Star Chief, Bonneville and Grand Prix Economy V-8  – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 230 @ 3600. Torque: 390 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7023063.

Bonneville Series V-8 Standard Transmission (Optional Star Chief and Catalina) : Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 235 @ 3600. Torque: 407 @ 2000 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift: Intake 0.373″, Exhaust 0.407″. Carburetor: Rochester two-barrel Model 7023066.

Catalina Series 267 HP V8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 267 @ 4200. Torque: 4010 @ 2400 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.373″. Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7023060.

Star Chief  Series V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 283 @ 4400. Torque: 418 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 270°, Overlap 49°, Lift 0.373″ Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7023060.

Bonneville, Grand Prix & Star Chief V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 303 @ 4600. Torque: 430 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift: Intake 0.409″, Exhaust 0.412″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3649S.

Catalina, Star Chief, Bonneville Grand Prix Series V-8 – Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 306 @ 4800. Torque: 420 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift: Intake 0.409″, Exhaust 0.412″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3647S.

Optional 330 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , Hydra-matic Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 330 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 289°, Overlap 54°, Lift: Intake: 0.4009″ Exhaust: 0.411″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7024178 (center) 7024173  (rear) 7024179.

Optional 330 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , Standard Transmission: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 330 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 430 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 288°, Exhaust 302°, Overlap 63°, Lift: Intake: 0.415″ Exhaust: 0.412″. Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7024178 (center) 7024175  (rear) 7024179.

GTO 325 Horsepower  V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 325 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 428 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 289°, Overlap 54°, Lift 0.402″ (intake), 0.409″ (exhaust) . Carburetor:  Carter AFB Model (manual transmission) 3647S (automatic) 3648S.

GTO Optional 348 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 348 @ 4900 RPM. Torque: 428 @ 3600 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 289°, Overlap 54°, Lift 0.402″ (intake) 0.409″ (exhaust). Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7024178, (center manual trans) 7024175, (center auto trans) 7024173, (rear) 7024179.

1965-1966

In 1965-66 the GTO settled on 335 and 360 hp for the 4-barrel and 3-2 barrel engines. An “X” code ram air engine with an even more aggressive 301/313 cam was introduced in 1966, but advertised hp stayed at 360. Other 389s ranged in hp from 256 to 333 hp, though only the GTO could receive the 3-2 barrel engine. 1966 was the last year for the 389 V8, with a much improved 400 cu. in. motor debuting in 1967.

1965 and 1966 Pontiac 389 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Star Chief and Catalina Series Manual Transmission Base V-8: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 256 @ 4600. Torque: 388 @ 2400 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel Model 7025066.

Star Chief and Catalina Series Hydra-matic Transmission Base V-8 : Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 256 @ 4600. Torque: 388 @ 2400 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel Model 7025060.

All Series Base High Compression V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 290 @ 4600. Torque: 418 @ 2400 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.406″ Carburetor: Rochester 2GC two-barrel Model 7025066.

Bonneville & Grand Prix V-8 – Hydra-matic Transmission (Optional Star Chief  & Catalina): Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 325 @ 4800. Torque: 429 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 282°, Overlap 55°, Lift 0.406″. 1965 Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3896S; 1966 Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 4034S.

Bonneville & Grand Prix V-8 – Standard Transmission (Optional Star Chief & Catalina) : Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 333 @ 5000. Torque: 429 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 289°, Overlap 54°, Lift 0.4006″. 1965 Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3895S; 1966 Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 4033S.

GTO 335 Horsepower  V-8 – All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 325 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 428 @ 3200 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 273°, Exhaust 289°, Overlap 54°, Lift 0.406″. 1965 Carburetor:  Carter AFB Model 3899S (Synchromesh) 3900S (Automatic). 1966: Carter AFB Model 4033S (Synchromesh) 4034S (Automatic).

GTO Optional 360 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 360 @ 5200 RPM. Torque: 424 @ 3600 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 288°, Exhaust 302°, Overlap 63°, Lift 0.406″ (intake) 0.408″ (exhaust). 1965: Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7024178, (center Synchromesh) 7025175, (center Hydra-matic) 7025177, (rear) 7024179; 1966: Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7025178, (center Synchromesh) 7026075, (center Hydra-matic) 7026074, (rear) 7024179.

GTO Optional 360 Horsepower Ram Air V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Optional 360 Horsepower V-8 – All Models , All Transmissions: Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Displacement: 389 CID. Bore and stroke: 4.0625″ x 3.750″. Compression ratio: 10.75:1. Horsepower: 360 @ 5200 RPM. Torque: 424 @ 3600 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 288°, Exhaust 302°, Overlap 63°, Lift 0.406″ (intake) 0.408″ (exhaust). 1965: Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7024178, (center Synchromesh) 7025175, (center Hydra-matic) 7025177, (rear) 7024179; 1966: Carburetors: three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors: (front) 7025178, (center Synchromesh) 7026075, (center Hydra-matic) 7026074, (rear) 7024179.

The 326 CID V8 (1963-1967)

In 1963 Pontiac dropped the Buick Division built 215 aluminum V8 offered on the Pontiac Tempest in 1961-62 and replaced it with a small-bore version of the standard 389 Pontiac V8. It shared the 389’s 3.75″ stroke, but its bore was 3.78″ giving this one-year only cubic inch size of 336. For the remaining 3 years of its life it would be a smaller bore 326 cubic inch engine.

1963

For 1963 the 336 was rated at 260 hp with 10.25:1 compression and a 2-barrel carb. Later a 4-barrel engine was introduced that was rated at 280 hp. The 336 V8 engine was a high-end engine option for A-body Pontiacs only. Cylinder heads took advantage of the 389 with 1.88″ intakes and 1.60″ exhausts.

1963 Pontiac 326 CID Engine Specifications
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Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 336 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.781″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 260 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 352 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester two-barrel (synchromesh) 7023071, (automatic) 7023062.

NOTE: Despite actual CID of 336, Pontiac listed the motor as 326 CID.

Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 336 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.78″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 280 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 352 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model 3326SA.

NOTE: Despite actual CID of 336, Pontiac listed the motor as 326 CID.

1964

For 1964 the 336’s bore was reduced to 3.71875″ (3.72″) but the stroke remained the same, resulting in a true 326 cubic inches – which it would stay at until it was discontinued at the end of 1967 and replaced with the 350.

With the introduction of the new larger A-Body, a Chevrolet sourced 6 cylinder and the 326 were the only engines offered in the Tempest line, with the exception of the historic GTO, of course, which received the 389. All other Pontiac A-Bodies had a choice of two 326 V8s; a 250 hp 2-barrel carbureted version and a higher-output version, which was called the “326 HO” (High Output). The HO had a four-barrel carburetor, dual exhaust, and higher compression, and made 280 horsepower.

1964 Pontiac 326 CID Engine Specifications
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Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 250 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 333 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester two-barrel (synchromesh) 7023071, (automatic) 7023062.

Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 10.25:1. Horsepower: 280 @ 4800 RPM. Torque: 352 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB four-barrel Model (synchromesh) 3686S; (automatic) 3687S.

1965-1967

The 326 was offered in the same two flavors in the three years after 1964, with the exception that the HO version was rated at 285 hp. In 1967 the Pontiac Firebird, received this engine as the base V8 powerplant. The valve size in ’67 increased to match the low performance 400 at 1.92″ intake and 1.66″ exhaust valves. The 326 was replaced by the 350 cu. in. V-8 in 1968.

1965 Pontiac 326 CID Engine Specifications
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Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 8.6:1. Horsepower: 250 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 333 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. 1965 Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel (manual transmission) 7025071 (automatic) 7025062; 1966 Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel (manual transmission) 7026071 (automatic) 7026062. 1967 Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel (manual transmission) 7027071 (automatic) 7027062.

Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 285 @ 5000 RPM. Torque: 359 @ 2900 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. 1965 Carburetor: Carter AFB 4-barrel (manual transmission) 3899S, (automatic) 3900S; 1966 Carburetor: Carter AFB 4-barrel (manual transmission) 4035S, (automatic) 4036S; 1967 Carburetor: Carter AFB 4-barrel (manual transmission) 4243S, (automatic) 4246S.

1966 Pontiac 326 CID Engine Specifications
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Tempest Base V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 9.2:1. Horsepower: 250 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 333 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings.  Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel (manual transmission) 7026071 (automatic) 7026062.

Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 285 @ 5000 RPM. Torque: 359 @ 2900 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB 4-barrel (manual transmission) 4035S, (automatic) 4036S.

1967 Pontiac 326 CID Engine Specifications
Click the tabs for specific engine information

Tempest Base V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 9.2:1. Horsepower: 250 @ 4600 RPM. Torque: 333 @ 2800 RPM. Five main bearings.  Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.375″. Carburetor: Rochester 2-barrel (manual transmission) 7027071 (automatic) 7027062.

Tempest Optional V-8 – All Transmissions: Cast Iron Block. Displacement: 326 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.72″ x 3.75″ Compression ratio: 10.5:1. Horsepower: 285 @ 5000 RPM. Torque: 359 @ 2900 RPM. Five main bearings. Hydraulic valve lifters. Camshaft Duration: Intake 269°, Exhaust 277°, Overlap 47°, Lift 0.370″. Carburetor: Carter AFB 4-barrel (manual transmission) 4243S, (automatic) 4246S.

Learn More! View Our Pontiac GTO Fact Sheets
Learn About the Pontiac Small Journal V-8 Part 1
Learn About the Pontiac Small Journal V-8 Part 3
Learn About the Pontiac Large Journal V-8
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