The HEMI® name is etched into the soul of American muscle, often spoken in the same breath as raw V8 power and high-octane performance. But in Chrysler’s storied history, not all HEMI engines came with eight cylinders.
While the Ram Brand’s recent move to reinstate the 5.7L HEMI V8 for the 2026 model year rekindles a familiar flame stateside, few realize that one of the most intriguing HEMI engines ever built was actually born in Australia – and it only had six cylinders.
Dubbed the HEMI-6, this inline-six engine defied convention. Developed by Chrysler Australia, it replaced the Slant-Six in the local Valiant lineup starting in 1970. With semi-hemispherical combustion chambers and serious performance chops – including a Six Pack variant with triple Webers producing up to 302 horsepower – the HEMI-6 held its own against V8 rivals of the day.
Though it never made waves outside Australia, the HEMI-6 remains a symbol of engineering ingenuity and national pride. And now, as Ram balances legacy and innovation with both the iconic HEMI V8 and the new twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six under the same roof, the debate between V6 and V8 power enters a new chapter. The muscle might still be there – it just sounds a little different.
Source: Mike Garrett | slashgear.com | Photo credit: autoevolution.com
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1 Comment
I’d love to import a Aussie Hemi six to the U.S.