How much horsepower does a 1988 350 have?
In 1988, the 350 cubic-inch V8 did not have a single universal horsepower rating. Depending on the model and configuration, outputs ranged from about 165–210 horsepower in base or trucks to around 230–250 horsepower in higher‑performance versions such as Corvette and sport-oriented Camaros/Firebirds.
Context: The 350's multiple flavors in 1988
GM used the 350 (5.7 liters) across a wide lineup in 1988—from workaday trucks and full‑size sedans to sports cars. Variants differed in fuel delivery (carbureted vs. early EFI), cam timing, exhaust, and emissions equipment. Because of this, a single number isn’t sufficient to describe the entire 1988 350 family.
The following list captures the range of horsepower you might encounter for commonly seen 1988 engines, by application.
- Base 350 V8 in trucks and traditional passenger cars (carbureted or early fuel-injected setups): roughly 165–210 horsepower, depending on configuration and emission controls.
- Throttle Body Injection (TBI) and early EFI versions used in some cars: typically around 180–210 horsepower.
- High‑output or performance variants found in sport models: about 230–250 horsepower, with Corvette versions near the upper end of this range.
These figures reflect SAE net horsepower ratings and the broad variants GM offered that year. The exact number for a given vehicle requires identifying the specific engine code and drivetrain configuration.
Performance highlights: notable 1988 350 applications
While there was no single rating for all 350s, certain models are commonly cited for higher output in 1988:
- Chevrolet Corvette (5.7L V8): one of the higher output 350s of the year, typically in the mid-to-high 240s horsepower range.
- Camaro and Firebird (5.7L V8 variants): sport trims often ranged around the low-to-mid 230s horsepower.
- Full-size GM sedans and SUVs (5.7L V8): more than 180 horsepower in many configurations, generally lower than Corvette and sport variants.
To determine the exact horsepower for a specific 1988 vehicle, locate the engine code or refer to the original window sticker or GM service literature for that exact model and drivetrain.
How to identify the exact horsepower for your 1988 350
Use these steps to pinpoint the precise figure for your vehicle:
- Find the engine identification code stamped on the block or listed on the vehicle’s emissions label or VIN plate.
- Consult the original dealer documentation, service manuals, or GM horsepower tables from 1988 for that engine code.
- Compare the figure to SAE net horsepower numbers published at the time (these replaced older gross ratings in the mid‑1970s onward).
With the engine code in hand, you can determine the exact horsepower as originally published for that 1988 model, rather than relying on broad generalizations.
Summary
The 1988 350 is not a single horsepower figure. It encompassed a family of 5.7-liter V8s across GM cars and trucks, delivering roughly 165–210 hp in many base configurations and about 230–250 hp in sport and performance variants such as Corvette and Camaro/Firebird. The precise horsepower requires identifying the specific engine version and model in question. If you share the vehicle model, trim, and any engine codes, I can give a precise figure.
