How much horsepower does a 1997 Chevy 1500 5.7 V-8 have?
The 1997 Chevy 1500 with the 5.7-liter V-8 is rated at 255 horsepower (SAE net), with about 330 lb-ft of torque.
This article details the official power figures for the 1997 C/K 1500 pickup, how the 5.7-liter V-8 was configured, and what those numbers mean for performance. Ratings from that era are SAE net and can vary slightly by emission package or measurement standards used at the time, but 255 hp and 330 lb-ft are the commonly cited figures for most examples equipped with the 5.7L V-8.
Engine overview and power figures
The 1997 Chevrolet C/K 1500 lineup used the 5.7-liter V-8 (LB7/L31 family) with throttle-body fuel injection. For that model year, GM’s official specification lists 255 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, measured as SAE net values. The horsepower is typically cited at about 4,600 rpm, with torque peaking around 2,800 rpm, reflecting a broad, usable torque band for towing and daily driving.
Notes on ratings and variations
horsepower and torque numbers can vary slightly due to emission-control packages, drivetrain configurations (2WD vs. 4WD), and whether the vehicle was tested under different SAE standards in effect at the time. While some documentation or sources may show minor discrepancies (often within a few horsepower), the widely accepted figure for the 1997 5.7L V-8 in the C/K 1500 is 255 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque.
Performance implications for the era
With 255 hp, the 1997 1500 offered solid acceleration for a full-size pickup of its era, along with substantial low- to mid-range torque that aided payloads and towing. Modern vehicles may exceed these figures, but the 1997 engine was designed for a balanced mix of power, durability, and drivability in daily use.
Summary
In summary, the 1997 Chevy 1500 equipped with the 5.7-liter V-8 delivers about 255 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, SAE net. This reflects the engineering standards of the late 1990s and the truck’s intended use, balancing performance with reliability and load-carrying capability.
