The 406 CID engine was released in mid-1962 as a high performance engine – replacing the 390 high performance engine. It was not fitted in vehicles in any other configuration, unlike the 352 and 390 before it. New, more efficient, cylinder heads were fitted for the first time since the introduction of the 352 high performance V8.

It used a 4.13″ bore with the 390’s 3.785″ stroke, giving a displacement of 405.7 cid and called the “406.” The larger bore required a new block casting, but otherwise was very similar to the 390 block it replaced. It was available in 1963 as well, but was quickly replaced by the 427 CID high performance V8 in that year. Just prior to its replacement it was delivered as a side oiler (see 427 CID).

The 406 also came in two flavors. A 385 HP version received a single 4-barrel carburetor, aluminum high rise intake 10.9:1 compression and was rated at 385 HP @ 5800 rpm and 444 ft. lbs. of torque @ 3400 rpm. The three 2-barrel engine made 405 HP @ 5800 rpm and 448 ft. lbs. of torque @ 3500 rpm.