"Hemi" is a trademark owned by Chrysler Corporation (now by FCA) so, technically, ANY engine they produce could be branded a "Hemi" (as evidenced by the 2.6 Mitsu "Hemis" from the eighties.

What makes a "Hemi" a "Hemi" is not just the domed combustion chamber. The (arguaby) most important feature of the "Hemi" head is the opposed arrangement of the intake and exhaust valves which allows for larger valves and straighter (and larger) ports which give the Hemi a clear advantage in high RPM horsepower.

The addition of the quench areas and twin plugs address the low-end deficiencies of the old hemis (remember that, stock for stock, the six pack engines could, and often did, embarrass the mighty Hemi.

So, in conclusion. The Hemi combustion chamber isn't (and has never been) truly hemispherical. But this engine shares the most import aspect of the old Hemi's design. Is it a Hemi? Chrysler says it is...and since they own the trademark, well...who am I to argue?

Last edited by Orange_Crush; 08/28/14 02:09 PM.

1970 Dodge Charger R/T Hemi Orange U-code 4-speed
1971 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V-12 4-speed 2+2 Signal Red.