How much horsepower does a 1955 Chevy V8 have?
The base 1955 Chevrolet V8 (the 265 cubic inch engine) produced about 162 horsepower, and there was an optional Power Pak that increased output to roughly 180 horsepower.
Overview of the 1955 265 V8 and its horsepower options
In 1955, Chevrolet introduced the 265-cubic-inch small-block V8, a landmark design intended to deliver strong performance across the lineup. Horsepower varied by carburetion and compression, with the figures commonly cited as SAE gross ratings of the era. This means the numbers reflect peak power before many engine accessories were factored in, which differs from modern net ratings.
Before listing the configurations, note that different trims and markets used the same block but with different carburetors and compression. The two primary horsepower setups for passenger-car applications in 1955 were:
- Base 265 cu in V8 with a two-barrel carburetor: 162 horsepower (SAE gross).
- Power Pak option (higher compression and four-barrel carburetor): 180 horsepower (SAE gross).
Concluding the information in this list: Chevrolet offered two main power levels for the 1955 265 V8—162 hp in the standard setup and about 180 hp with the Power Pak—reflecting an early effort to boost performance without introducing a separate high-performance division.
Additional context for enthusiasts and restorers
When dating or restoring a 1955 Chevy with the 265 V8, verify the exact configuration by checking the engine tag, carburetor setup, and any factory documentation. Since horsepower ratings from the period are SAE gross and different from modern net ratings, actual performance in a modern test can differ, especially with aftermarket parts or substitutions.
Summary
The 1955 Chevrolet V8, a pioneering 265-cu-in small-block, produced 162 horsepower in its standard form and about 180 horsepower with the Power Pak option. These figures come from the era's SAE gross ratings and can vary depending on the model, carburetion, and compression setup. For collectors, matching the correct configuration is key to authenticity.
What made the 1955 Chevy so special?
The introduction of the revolutionary small-block V-8 engine made 1955 a momentous year for Chevrolet. That engine quickly became the cornerstone of American high performance in all forms of racing and hot rods. The high performance aftermarket owes its existence to the 265-cubic-inch Chevy and its many derivatives.
How much horsepower does a 1955 Chevy have?
The following engines were available on the 1955 Chevrolet: OHV Inline 6 cylinder: 235 cubic inch, 123 horsepower. OHV Inline 6 cylinder: 235 cubic inches, 136 brake horsepower (SAE) OHV V8: 265 cubic inches, 162 brake horsepower (SAE)
What size V8 engine came out originally in the 1955 Chevy?
Chevrolet 265 cu in
The first generation of Chevrolet small-blocks began with the 1955 Chevrolet 265 cu in (4.3 L) V8 offered in the Corvette and Bel Air.
How much horsepower does a 1956 Chevy V-8 have?
205 horsepower
V-8 cylinder engine, overhead valves, 265 cubic inches displacement, 205 horsepower. It's the most enduring 8-cylinder American automobile engine. Chevrolet introduced its “small block” V-8 in 1955 – and kept on building it until 2003.
