How much horsepower does a 1997 Chevy 2500 have?
The short answer is that horsepower in the 1997 Chevy 2500 varied by engine: about 255 horsepower from the 5.7L V8, roughly 230 horsepower from the 7.4L V8, and around 190 horsepower from the 6.5L turbodiesel.
In 1997, Chevrolet offered several powertrains in the heavy-duty 2500 lineup, including gasoline V8 options and a turbodiesel. This article breaks down the horsepower figures by engine type and explains how they influence performance.
Engine options in the 1997 Chevy 2500
The horsepower figures below reflect the standard ratings reported by Chevrolet for each engine in the late-1990s 2500 lineup. Availability varied by cab configuration, bed length, and drivetrain.
Gasoline engines
Two gasoline V8 options powered the 1997 2500. The numbers below are approximate, as exact output could shift slightly by market and emission configuration.
- 5.7L V8 (355 cubic inches): about 255 horsepower.
- 7.4L V8 (454 cubic inches) big-block: about 230 horsepower.
These gasoline engines offered similar torque ranges for work truck duties but differed in displacement, fuel economy, and peak torque, affecting towing and payload capabilities.
Diesel engine
The 1997 2500 turbodiesel option delivered its own power profile, prioritizing torque for heavy hauling. The engine’s horsepower was typically around 190 hp, with torque well above the gasoline engines.
- 6.5L Turbo Diesel V8: about 190 horsepower (with torque typically above 400 lb-ft).
The diesel engine’s lower horsepower did not translate to weak performance; its torque curve made it a strong choice for towing and long-haul work, especially at low engine speeds.
Performance implications and use cases
The horsepower figures give only part of the picture. For work trucks like the 1997 Chevy 2500, torque and gearing, as well as payload and drivetrain, mattered just as much as peak horsepower. Gasoline 5.7L and 7.4L engines offered higher-rev performance and a different throttle feel, while the 6.5L diesel emphasized lugging power at lower RPMs for towing heavy loads and navigating rough terrain.
Ultimately, the right engine for a 1997 Chevy 2500 would depend on the owner’s priorities—max payload and ruggedness vs. higher-speed highway performance or better fuel economy. Condition, maintenance history, and the presence of any aftermarket modifications can also influence actual horsepower and performance today.
Summary
The 1997 Chevy 2500 came with multiple powertrains. Gasoline versions delivered roughly 255 hp (5.7L) and 230 hp (7.4L), while the turbodiesel version offered about 190 hp. Consumers could choose based on whether they prioritized raw horsepower, torque, fuel economy, or towing capability. As with any older truck, verify the engine and perform a dyno or road test for current horsepower readings.
