How much horsepower does a 1979 Chevy 350 have?
The 1979 Chevy 350 engine is a classic small-block V8 that has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for decades. Known for its reliability and performance, this engine was used in a variety of Chevrolet vehicles, including trucks, muscle cars, and sedans. In this article, we’ll explore the horsepower specifications of the 1979 Chevy 350 and what makes it such a popular choice for car enthusiasts and restorers alike.
Understanding the 1979 Chevy 350 Engine
The Chevy 350 engine, introduced in 1967, became one of the most iconic engines in automotive history. By 1979, it had undergone several modifications to meet changing emissions standards and performance demands. The engine was available in different configurations, which affected its horsepower output.
Horsepower Ratings for the 1979 Chevy 350
The horsepower of a 1979 Chevy 350 engine depends on the specific model and configuration. Here are the general horsepower ratings for the most common versions of the 350 engine from that year:
- Base Model: The standard 350 engine produced approximately 155 to 175 horsepower, depending on the vehicle it was installed in and the emissions equipment used.
- High-Performance Variants: Some high-performance versions, such as those found in the Corvette or Camaro Z28, could produce up to 225 horsepower.
- Truck Applications: In trucks, the 350 engine was often tuned for torque rather than horsepower, with outputs typically around 160 to 175 horsepower.
Factors That Influence Horsepower
Several factors influenced the horsepower output of the 1979 Chevy 350 engine:
- Compression Ratio: Lower compression ratios were used in the late 1970s to meet emissions standards, which reduced horsepower compared to earlier models.
- Camshaft Design: The camshaft profile played a significant role in determining the engine's performance characteristics.
- Carburetor and Intake System: Variations in the carburetor and intake manifold design affected airflow and, consequently, horsepower.
- Exhaust System: Emissions regulations required more restrictive exhaust systems, which could limit performance.
Why the 1979 Chevy 350 Remains Popular
Despite the relatively modest horsepower ratings by today’s standards, the 1979 Chevy 350 remains a popular engine for several reasons:
- Reliability: The 350 is known for its durability and long lifespan, making it a favorite among classic car owners.
- Ease of Modification: The engine’s simple design makes it easy to modify and upgrade for increased performance.
- Parts Availability: Replacement parts for the 350 are widely available and affordable, making it a practical choice for restorations.
- Versatility: The 350 can be adapted for use in a wide range of vehicles, from hot rods to off-road trucks.
Conclusion
The 1979 Chevy 350 engine is a testament to Chevrolet’s engineering prowess and remains a beloved choice for car enthusiasts. With horsepower ratings ranging from 155 to 225 depending on the configuration, it offers a balance of performance and reliability that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re restoring a classic car or building a custom project, the Chevy 350 is a solid foundation for your automotive dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year Chevy 350 is the best?
When it comes to the best years for the Chevy 350 V8, three motors, in particular, stand out: the 1970 LT-1, the 1992 L98, and the 2002 L31. Like many older engines, the 1970 LT-1 is prized, in part, for its lack of emissions control devices.
How much horsepower does a classic 350 have?
20.2 bhp
Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a cruiser bike available in 7 variants and 11 colours. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is powered by 349cc BS6 engine which develops a power of 20.2 bhp and a torque of 27 Nm. With both front and rear disc brakes, Royal Enfield Classic 350 comes up with anti-locking braking system.
How much horsepower does a 79 Camaro 350 have?
LM1 350 V8 with revised exhaust, carburetion, and ignition timing, dropped horsepower to 175 for 49-States versions and 170 bhp in California. Torque was also slightly lower this year.
How much horsepower does a 1978 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 horsepower does a 1979 Corvette 350 engine have?
195 horsepower
There are still but two engines available in the Corvette, both displacing 350 cubic inches. Base (L48) engines get the L82 low-restriction intake and exhaust systems, a change that raises their output to 195 horsepower.
How to get the most HP out of a Chevy 350?
Two-Barrel Carb to a Four: Upgrading your Chevy 350's stock two-barrel carburetor to a four-barrel, like a Holley 650 double pumper, is a great way to add more horsepower. This swap increases air and fuel intake, directly translating to more power.
How much horsepower does a 1977 Corvette 350 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.
How much horsepower does a 1975 Chevy 350 have?
The most anemic 1975 350 was rated at 140 hp with a two-barrel carburetor, while the Corvette's base version had 165 hp with a four-barrel. Vette buyers craving more power could order the 205hp L82 offering 210 hp in 1976.
How much is a 1979 Corvette worth today?
The value of a 1979 Chevrolet Corvette can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $16,300 for a 1979 Chevrolet Corvette in good condition with average spec.
How much HP does a stock 350 Chevy make?
The Chevy 350 engine is a 350 cubic inch (5.7-liter) small block V8 with a 4.00 and 3.48 inch bore and stroke. Depending on the year, make and model of a car, horsepower ranges from approximately 145 to more than 370.
