How much horsepower does a 1977 Corvette 350 have?
In brief: the 1977 Corvette offered two 350 cubic-inch V8 power options — the base L48 at about 180 horsepower and the High-Output L82 at around 230 horsepower (SAE net). Actual output can vary with drivetrain and factory options.
Context and what this means
The 1977 Corvette sits in the C3 generation, a era when horsepower ratings shifted to SAE net figures that reflect real-world output with standard equipment. For the 350-cu-in V8 in that year, two engine codes determined most of the horsepower you’d read on the window sticker: the standard L48 and the optional L82 High-Output. Differences in emissions controls, exhaust setup, and other equipment helped shape the final numbers you’d see on a given car.
Engine options and horsepower
Before listing the numbers, note that the 1977 Corvette could be equipped with either the base 350 V8 (L48) or the optional high-performance 350 V8 (L82). The factory ratings for that year were widely cited as follows:
- L48 350 V8: 180 horsepower (SAE net)
- L82 High-Output 350 V8: 230 horsepower (SAE net)
These figures assume standard equipment and emissions configurations; performance can vary with exhaust systems, intake details, and other factory options. Horsepower is an engine specification and is not directly tied to the car’s gearing or weight alone, though drivetrain and setup will influence how that power translates to performance.
How this aligns with performance and verification
Horsepower is just one metric of a vintage Corvette’s performance. Real-world acceleration depends on weight, torque, gearing, tire choice, and condition. To verify a specific car’s horsepower, consult the original build sheet, window sticker, or decode the VIN to confirm the exact engine code and options installed at factory.
Summary
For a 1977 Corvette with a 350 small-block, the factory horsepower ranged from about 180 hp with the base L48 to about 230 hp with the High-Output L82. Exact figures depend on the car’s specific configuration and how horsepower was rated at the time. If you’re evaluating a particular car, the build sheet or GM historical data will provide the precise number for that vehicle.
How much horsepower does a 1977 Chevy 350 have?
The 350 was rated at 165 hp at 3800 rpm. There was a choice of the light duty or heavy duty emissions package too which did not make a difference to the hp ratings but for some reason the light duty emissions 350 had 5 pounds more torque than the heavy duty version. 260 @2400 rpm vs. 255 @ 2800 rpm.
How much is a 1977 Corvette worth now?
A 1977 Corvette's value varies significantly based on condition, ranging from a low of around $8,000 for a car needing work to a high of about $32,900 for a pristine, concours-level example. An average driver-quality car is typically worth around $12,700, while a well-maintained car in excellent condition is around $19,800.
Value based on condition (Hagerty Valuation Tool)
- Concours Condition (#1): ~$32,900 (Pristine, perfect original, or meticulously restored)
- Excellent Condition (#2): ~$19,800 (Well-maintained with minimal wear)
- Good Condition (#3): ~$12,700 (Driver-quality with some imperfections)
- Fair Condition (#4): ~$7,400 (Needs work)
Factors that can influence value
- Transmission: A close-ratio 4-speed manual can add about $500.
- Power Windows: A desirable factory option that can add approximately $200.
- Air Conditioning: Factory air conditioning is a valuable option that can increase the value by around $1,000.
- Engine: Corvettes with the more powerful L82 engine can command higher prices than those with the standard L48.
- Originality: Cars that are in original condition, with no modifications, are often more valuable to collectors.
What was the worst year for the C3 Corvette?
1982 Corvette Collector Edition
The C3 Corvette was amidst its death throes during the 1982 model year. In its 15th year of production, it had few fans left and open derision was the norm among enthusiasts. The C3 had overstayed its welcome by at least five years.
How much horsepower does a 1977 Chevy Corvette have?
180 horse
The standard powertrain for the 1977 Corvette was the same, a 180 horse, 350 cubic-inch, small-block Chevy L48 engine mated to a 4-speed, wide-ratio manual transmission. You could also order an optional 210 horse L82 engine or a 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission too.
