How much horsepower does a 1956 Chevy V-8 have?

The 1956 Chevrolet V-8, built on Chevrolet’s widely used 265 cubic inch small-block, produced about 162 to 180 horsepower depending on configuration; the common higher-output setup was around 180 horsepower.

Horsepower figures for the 1956 Chevy V-8 varied by carburetion and compression, and the ratings from that era were typically SAE gross figures. In practice, the actual usable power in a finished car could differ based on the exact model, exhaust setup, and other equipment. This article breaks down the typical configurations and how to interpret those numbers today.

Overview of the 1956 Chevy V-8

The 1956 model year continued Chevrolet’s rapid development of the small-block V-8 introduced in 1955. The 265 cubic inch V-8 powered a wide range of Chevrolets—from passenger cars to light trucks—making it a foundational engine for the era. Two primary horsepower configurations were offered, depending on the carburetion and compression setup chosen by the buyer or installed on a given model.

Horsepower configurations

Below are the two most commonly cited configurations for the 1956 265 V-8. Before listing, note that these figures reflect the SAE gross ratings used at the time; actual in-car performance could vary.

• Standard two-barrel 265 V8: approximately 162 horsepower (SAE gross).


• Power Pak option (higher compression and/or four-barrel carburetor): approximately 180 horsepower (SAE gross).

Concluding this list, buyers and restorers should remember that the era’s published horsepower numbers were often gross ratings separated from the car’s actual net output once installed with exhausts, accessories, and the drivetrain. Net horsepower in a finished vehicle would typically be lower than the SAE gross figure.

Impact and context

The 265 small-block’s 1956 horsepower figures illustrate how Chevy balanced performance with affordability in the mid-1950s. The engine’s popularity helped set a standard for American V-8s, influencing performance packages and consumer expectations for years to come. For collectors, authentic specifications and era-accurate components matter when assessing a 1956 Chevy with the 265 V-8—especially when evaluating restoration accuracy and period-correct performance characteristics.

Notes for collectors and enthusiasts

When evaluating a 1956 Chevy with the V-8, consider the following:

• Identify whether the car has the standard two-barrel setup or the Power Pak option, as this drives the horsepower difference.


• Recognize that SAE gross numbers from the era are not directly equivalent to modern net horsepower measurements.


• Account for wear, exhaust condition, and intake components when estimating current performance on a restored or used example.

In short, the 1956 Chevy V-8 delivers a modest but meaningful level of power for its time, with the more performance-oriented configuration offering a noticeable increase in output over the base setup.

Summary

The 1956 Chevrolet V-8 (265 cu in) typically produced between 162 and 180 horsepower, depending on carburetion and compression. The higher-output version, often labeled Power Pak, pushed toward the 180 hp mark (all figures SAE gross). These numbers reflect 1950s advertising practices and should be interpreted as gross ratings, with net power in a finished vehicle typically lower due to drivetrain and accessory differences. For collectors, matching the correct configuration and period-correct components is key to an authentic restoration.

What is the rarest 56 Chevy model?

The rarest of Chevrolet's iconic “Tri-Five” Bel Airs, the 1956 Nomad blended sporty style with station wagon practicality and was produced in far fewer numbers than its sedan counterparts.

How much horsepower does a 1956 Chevy V8 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.

How much is a 1956 Chevy worth today?

A 1956 Chevy's value varies widely, from around $9,000 for a fixer-upper to over $100,000 for a high-end convertible. Most cars in "good" or "average" condition fall in the $25,000 to $40,000 range, with price heavily dependent on model (like a Bel Air convertible vs. a 4-door sedan), condition, mileage, and historical options.
 
Value breakdown by condition and model

• Driver/fixer-upper: Approximately $9,000, depending on its condition. 
• Good/average condition: Around $25,000 to $40,000. For example, a good-condition 1956 Bel Air 4-door sedan might be valued around $25,700, while a good 1956 210 is about $19,550. 
• High-end/show-quality: These can reach well into the tens or even hundreds of thousands. 
  • A 1956 Bel Air convertible in good condition could be worth over $100,000, with some examples fetching over $175,000 at auction. 
  • A highly-optioned or modified model in exceptional condition will also command the highest prices. 

Factors that increase value

• Model: Bel Air convertibles are the most valuable, followed by 2-door sedans and Sport Coupes. 
• Originality: Cars that are numbers-matching and retain their original features are worth more. 
• Condition: A well-maintained or restored car with minimal rust or damage will always be more valuable. 
• History: A car with an excellent and documented history can also fetch a higher price. 

What is the best Chevy V8 engine?

The "best" Chevy V8 depends on your goal, but the ZZ632/1000 is the most powerful crate engine at 1,004 horsepower. For historical significance and versatility, the Small-Block (SBC) 350 is a legendary and reliable choice for hot rods and general use, while the more modern LS series is known for its power and aftermarket support.
 
This video discusses the most powerful Chevrolet V8 engines ever made, including the ZZ632/1000: 59sSUV ZoneYouTube · Nov 2, 2024
For maximum horsepower

• ZZ632/1000: Chevrolet's largest and most powerful crate engine, it produces 1,004 horsepower and 876 lb-ft of torque. 
• It is a massive, expensive engine designed for racing applications and requires significant supporting modifications. 

For versatility and reliability

• Small-Block (SBC) 350: Considered by many to be the best V8 of all time due to its durability, affordability, and adaptability. 
• Introduced in 1954, the 350-cubic-inch version was built until 2003 and has massive aftermarket support, making it a popular and relatively inexpensive engine for hot rods. 
• LS series (like the LS1): A more modern, aluminum-block engine that also has extensive aftermarket support, making it a popular and reliable choice for performance builds. 

This video explains how the Chevy 350 became America's most trusted V8: 1mAmerican ClassicsYouTube · Oct 25, 2025
For modern trucks

• 6.2L V8 (L87): In modern trucks, this engine offers high performance and good towing capability, though some versions have faced recall issues. 
• 5.3L V8 (L84): A more common and generally reliable engine that can last for 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. 

This video reviews the modern 6.2L V8 engine in Chevrolet trucks: 57sJB ReviewsYouTube · Aug 14, 2025