Why do American engines use cubic inches?

American manufacturers traditionally measured engine displacement in cubic inches (e.g. 350, 454, 302). European and Asian manufacturers use cubic centimetres (cc) or litres. The switch happened in the 1970s-80s as metrication spread, but classic American engines are still known by their cubic inch displacement.

How do I convert cubic inches to litres?

Divide cubic inches by 61.024 to get litres, or multiply by 16.387 to get cc then divide by 1000. For example, a 350 cu in engine is about 5,736 cc or 5.7 litres.

What are common American engine sizes in cc?

A Ford 302 is 4,942 cc (4.9L), a Chevy 350 is 5,735 cc (5.7L), a Chevy 454 is 7,440 cc (7.4L), and a Dodge 440 is 7,211 cc (7.2L). These engines are commonly found in American muscle cars and trucks.

Why do American cars use cubic inches?

The cubic inch was the traditional US measurement for engine displacement. Classic American V8 engines are known by their cubic inch displacement: 289, 302, 350, 454, etc. Modern US cars now quote displacement in litres, but cubic inches remain popular among classic car and hot rod enthusiasts.

How do I convert litres to cubic inches?

Multiply litres by 61.024 to get cubic inches. For example, a 2.0 litre engine = 122 cubic inches. Conversely, divide cubic inches by 61.024 to get litres. A classic 350 cubic inch V8 = 5.7 litres.

CarCalcs

Cubic Inches to CC Converter

Convert engine displacement between cubic inches and cubic centimetres.

Conversion Direction

Displacement (cu in)

How We Calculate This

This converter uses the exact mathematical relationship between cubic inches and cubic centimetres.

The Formulas

Cubic inches to cc: cc = cubic inches x 16.387064
CC to cubic inches: cubic inches = cc / 16.387064
CC to litres: litres = cc / 1000

Famous Engine Sizes

Ford 289 = 4,736 cc (4.7L)
Chevy 350 = 5,735 cc (5.7L)
Chevy 454 = 7,440 cc (7.4L)
Dodge 426 Hemi = 6,981 cc (7.0L)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.