How much horsepower does a 1990 5.7 Chevy engine have?

The short answer is that it depends on the application. In 1990, the 5.7-liter V8 produced roughly 210 horsepower in Chevrolet trucks and about 245–250 horsepower in the higher-performance cars such as the Corvette, with some variation based on induction and emission configurations.

To understand the question more clearly, the 5.7L V8 was used across several Chevrolet models in 1990, each tuned for different purposes. Induction systems ranged from throttle-body injection to tuned-port injection, and emissions controls varied by model and market. The result is a range of horsepower figures rather than a single number.

Model-specific horsepower in 1990

The following list outlines typical factory horsepower for common 1990 Chevrolet applications that used the 5.7-liter V8. These numbers reflect widely cited specs from that era, generally aligned with SAE net ratings used at the time.

• Chevrolet C/K pickup trucks and related body styles (5.7L V8 with throttle-body injection): approximately 210 horsepower, with torque around 330 lb-ft.


• Chevrolet Camaro/Firebird (5.7L V8 with tuned-port injection or early 1990s variants): typically about 230–245 horsepower, depending on trim and options.


• Chevrolet Corvette C4 (5.7L V8, performance-oriented configuration): about 245–250 horsepower, with torque commonly around 355 lb-ft.

Concluding the section, the horsepower figures for the 1990 5.7L V8 varied notably by model and fuel system. Trucks tended toward the lower end of the range, while Corvette and other performance-oriented variants approached the higher end, influenced by intake design and emissions controls.

Notes on variation and verification

Engine family and configuration

Within the 1990 lineup, the 5.7-liter engine could be configured with different fuel delivery systems and emissions packages. Throttle-body injection tended to yield lower peak horsepower than tuned-port injection in some configurations, and Corvette models often benefited from higher-compression or different tuning that pushed output upward.

Because horsepower ratings can depend on the exact drivetrain, transmission, rear-axle ratio, and whether the rating is SAE gross or SAE net (as well as market variations), the precise number for a given vehicle can differ from the general figures above. When evaluating a specific car, check the original build sheet, VIN-specific documentation, or factory literature for the most accurate rating.

Summary

In essence, the 1990 Chevy 5.7L V8 spanned a horsepower spectrum from roughly 210 hp in pickup trucks to about 245–250 hp in Corvette and other performance-oriented models. The exact figure depends on the model, induction system, and emissions setup. For a precise number on a particular vehicle, refer to its VIN, build sheet, or original dealer documentation.

How much horsepower does a 1990 Chevy 350 have?

A stock 1990 Chevy 350 engine typically produced around 190 to 230 horsepower, depending on the specific truck and its configuration. Variations in models meant some 350s could have slightly different power outputs, such as the 230-255 horsepower range mentioned for the 5.7L V8 in a 1990 Chevy Silverado. 

• General range: The factory 350 V8 in a 1990 Chevy truck generally falls between 190 and 230 horsepower. 
• Silverado 5.7L V8: A 1990 Silverado with the 5.7L V8 engine produced approximately 230-255 horsepower. 
• Factors affecting power: Horsepower output can be affected by factors like the fuel injection system, ignition timing, and exhaust configuration. 
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as replacing spark plugs and cleaning fuel injectors, is crucial for maintaining the engine's original horsepower. 

How much HP does a stock 5.7 350 have?

The horsepower of a 5.7L 350 engine varies significantly, from approximately 140 to over 370 horsepower in factory stock versions, depending on the year, model, and application. With modern performance parts, builds can easily exceed 400 horsepower, and specialized configurations can produce even more.
 
Factory stock horsepower

• Lower end: Many 350s from the late 1970s and early 1980s, built to meet emissions standards, were rated around 145 to 175 horsepower.
• Higher end: Factory performance versions, such as those in muscle cars, could produce over 300 horsepower, with some peak ratings reaching up to 370 horsepower. 

Modern and custom builds

• Performance upgrades: A well-built 350 with performance upgrades can easily produce 350 to 400 horsepower on pump gas. 
• High-performance crate engines: Crate engines are available with a wide range of horsepower ratings. For example, a Chevrolet Performance crate engine is rated at 357 horsepower, while other high-performance kits are designed to produce 370 or more horsepower. 
• Extreme builds: With forced induction (like superchargers or turbochargers) or other modifications, a 350 can be built to produce 400 horsepower or significantly more. 

Factors that affect horsepower

• Camshaft: A higher-performance camshaft can significantly increase horsepower. 
• Cylinder heads: Performance cylinder heads with larger intake runners and higher flow rates are a major factor in boosting power. 
• Carburetion/fuel injection: The type of intake and carburetor or fuel injection system plays a large role. 
• Exhaust system: A free-flowing exhaust system can improve overall engine performance. 

What year is the best Chevy 350 engine?

The best Chevy 350 engine is often considered to be the 1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L due to its significant improvements in performance and efficiency. This version features Vortec cylinder heads for better airflow and the more durable hydraulic roller camshaft. While earlier models were simpler, later ones like the Vortec offered a stronger block design (880 casting), which is ideal for high-performance builds. 
This video explains the advantages of the Vortec 5.7L engine: 58sMyvintageiron7512YouTube · Mar 17, 2023
1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L 

• Vortec cylinder heads: Significantly improved airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to better performance and fuel economy. 
• Hydraulic roller camshaft: This provides greater durability and reduced wear on the valvetrain compared to older flat-tappet cams. 
• Stronger block: Blocks with the "880" casting number were used during this time and are built for roller cams, making them a great foundation for building a high-performance engine. 

Other notable years

• Early 1990s (with roller cam): These engines are also desirable because they came with a roller valvetrain, but some may lack a provision for a mechanical fuel pump. 
• 1970 LT-1: For those seeking raw, early-era power, the 1970 LT-1 version is a legendary, high-performance option with solid lifters and high compression. 
• 1986 and newer (one-piece rear main seal): Engines from 1986 and newer are equipped with a one-piece rear main seal, which is different from the two-piece seal found on older engines. This distinction is important when selecting a compatible flywheel or flexplate. 

How much horsepower does a 1990 Chevy 1500 5.7 have?

Powertrain details
Engine design	Engine family	Output (SAE Net)
5.7 L (350 cu in) V8	Chevrolet small-block engine (Vortec 5700)	255 hp (190 kW) @ 4600 RPM
7.4 L (454 cu in) V8	Chevrolet big-block V8 (Mark IV)	230 hp (172 kW) @ 3600 RPM
Chevrolet big-block V8 (Gen V)