How much horsepower does a 1975 Corvette have?
The 1975 Corvette delivered 165 horsepower from the standard 350 cubic inch V8, with an optional performance package boosting output to about 230 horsepower. The exact figure depends on the engine installed and the emission-era rating method used at the time.
Engine lineup for the 1975 Corvette
In 1975, Corvette buyers could choose between two V8 engines. The base engine and the higher-performance option defined the car’s horsepower numbers for the model year. These figures reflect the SAE net ratings that were standard in that era, which were lower than earlier gross ratings due to stricter emissions controls.
- 350 cubic inch V8, known as the L48, rated at 165 horsepower (SAE net).
- 350 cubic inch V8, known as the L82, the optional performance engine, rated at about 230 horsepower (SAE net).
Before listing the engines, note that horsepower figures are SAE net ratings commonly cited for 1975 Corvettes.
The base L48 engine was designed for everyday driving, while the L82 option offered considerably more punch for enthusiasts looking for sharper acceleration and stronger top-end performance.
Why the numbers look different from earlier years
The 1970s brought tighter emissions regulations and a transition from gross to net horsepower ratings. That shift, along with catalytic converters and other compliance measures, meant the listed horsepower for the Corvette (and most American cars) came in lower than the earlier “gross” figures. For 1975, the Corvette’s two-engine lineup reflects the era’s practical performance rather than peak, pre-emissions output.
Details on the L82 option
The L82 was the higher-performance choice among the available V8s. While not a drag-race setup by modern standards, it provided noticeably stronger response and performance relative to the base engine. The availability and exact horsepower could vary by production date and emission-control configuration within the model year.
Performance and driving context
With the standard L48 engine, the 1975 Corvette offered solid, approachable performance suitable for daily driving and weekend fun. The optional L82 transformed the driving experience, delivering quicker acceleration and a more spirited feel, which was a key selling point for buyers seeking performance within the era’s regulatory framework. Transmission choices typically included a manual or automatic option, further shaping the car’s on-road feel.
Summary
For the 1975 Corvette, horsepower depended on the chosen engine. The baseline was 165 hp from the 350 cu in V8 (L48), while an optional L82 350 V8 provided roughly 230 hp (SAE net). These figures reflect the emissions-conscious engineering of the era and the shift from older, higher “gross” horsepower ratings. If you’re evaluating a specific 1975 Corvette, the exact engine code on the build sheet or VIN tag will confirm which horsepower figure applied to that car.
