What is Cubic Inches to Liters Converter?

This tool converts cubic inches to liters, essential for understanding engine displacement and mechanical specifications. American car enthusiasts know engines by cubic inches, while modern cars use liters. This converter bridges both worlds.

The Conversion Factor

One cubic inch equals 0.016387 liters. To convert, divide cubic inches by 61.024. For quick estimates, dividing by 60 gives a close approximation.

Engine Displacement Context

Classic American V8 engines in liters:

283 ci = 4.6 L (original Corvette small block)
302 ci = 4.9 L (Boss Mustang)
327 ci = 5.4 L (Corvette Stingray)
350 ci = 5.7 L (iconic Chevy small block)
396 ci = 6.5 L (big block)
426 ci = 7.0 L (Hemi)
454 ci = 7.4 L (Chevy big block)

Why This Matters

Car shopping: Comparing classic and modern engines
Parts ordering: Cross-referencing specifications
Performance: Understanding displacement relationships

Privacy

All calculations happen locally without data collection.

How to Use

Converting cubic inches to liters is easy:

Enter the cubic inch value
View the liter equivalent instantly
Compare engine sizes across eras

Quick Estimation

For mental math, divide cubic inches by 60:

300 ci ÷ 60 = 5.0 L (actual: 4.9 L)
400 ci ÷ 60 = 6.7 L (actual: 6.6 L)
This gives results within 2%

Modern Equivalents

Comparing classic muscle cars to modern engines:

Classic 350 ci = Modern 5.7L V8
Classic 302 ci ≈ Modern 5.0L Mustang GT
Classic 440 ci ≈ Modern 7.2L (hypothetical—modern engines are smaller but more powerful)

Other Applications

Beyond engines, cubic inches are used for:

Compressor and pump capacities
Small container volumes
Mechanical component specifications

Features

Precise Conversion

Uses the exact factor: 1 cubic inch = 0.016387 liters. Accurate for technical specifications.

Instant Results

Results appear as you type for quick comparisons.

Reference Table

Popular engine displacement conversions:

305 ci = 5.0 L
350 ci = 5.7 L
383 ci = 6.3 L
400 ci = 6.6 L
427 ci = 7.0 L
454 ci = 7.4 L

Copy Button

Copy values for documentation or parts ordering.

Unit Options

Switch to other volume units using the dropdown menus.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert cubic inches to liters?

Divide the cubic inch value by 61.024. For example: 350 ci ÷ 61.024 = 5.74 liters.

What is a 350 engine in liters?

A 350 cubic inch engine is 5.7 liters. This is the iconic Chevrolet small-block V8, one of the most produced engines in history.

What is a 5.0L engine in cubic inches?

A 5.0L engine is approximately 305 cubic inches. The Ford Mustang's "5.0" badge refers to this displacement.

Why did American cars use cubic inches?

The US customary system was standard when the American automotive industry developed. "Cubic inches" became embedded in car culture, even as the rest of the world adopted liters.

Is a bigger displacement always more powerful?

Not necessarily. Modern turbocharged 2.0L engines can match or exceed power from classic 5.0L engines. Displacement is one factor among many, including technology, tuning, and forced induction.

How many liters is a 454 big block?

A 454 cubic inch engine equals 7.4 liters. This was Chevrolet's largest production big-block V8.

Cubic Inches to Liters