How much horsepower does a 1986 Chevy Sprint have?
In 1986, the Chevy Sprint delivered modest power, with most U.S. and Canadian models rated around 50–60 horsepower in the standard engine, and a smaller number of markets offering a 1.3-liter option in the mid‑60s to mid‑70s horsepower range.
To understand the figures, it helps to know the Sprint was a badge‑engineered version of Suzuki’s subcompact lineup. Engine options and tuning varied by market and trim, so power output wasn’t identical everywhere.
Engine options and horsepower figures
The following outlines the typical horsepower ratings for the 1986 Sprint, noting that numbers can vary by market and emission equipment.
- 1.0-liter inline-3 engine (Suzuki-derived): approximately 50–60 horsepower, depending on carburetion and regional specifications.
- 1.3-liter inline-4 engine: roughly 65–75 horsepower, available in select markets and trims.
Across the lineup, the two engines covered the main power range for the 1986 Sprint, with the 1.0 L being the common US/Canada spec and the 1.3 L appearing in other markets or higher trims.
Market context and how power translated to performance
North America
The typical U.S. and Canadian Sprint relied on the 1.0 L three‑cylinder, delivering in the low‑to‑mid 50s horsepower. That level of output matched a lightweight car focused on fuel economy and practicality rather than outright speed.
Other markets
Some export markets offered the 1.3 L engine, which brought horsepower into the mid‑60s to mid‑70s range, depending on local tuning and emissions controls.
Overall, the 1986 Chevy Sprint’s horsepower spanned roughly 50–75 hp, driven by engine choice and regional specifications.
Summary
For the 1986 Chevy Sprint, most North American buyers saw about 50–60 horsepower from the standard 1.0 L engine, while a smaller share of markets with the 1.3 L option could see about 65–75 horsepower. These figures reflect the era’s SAE ratings and the badge‑engineering relationship with Suzuki’s subcompact lineup.
