How much horsepower does a 5.7 Chevy engine have?
The horsepower of a 5.7 Chevy engine isn’t a single figure, because the designation covers several distinct engines across generations. In general, most production 5.7L V8s sit in the 255–350 horsepower range, while some high-performance variants push about 400 horsepower or more.
This article explains the main 5.7-liter variants and their typical horsepower, with context for how outputs varied by model year, type, and tuning.
Major 5.7L variants and their horsepower
Below are the primary 5.7-liter engines GM used in Chevrolet vehicles, along with typical horsepower figures you’d find in common configurations.
- LT1 (1992–1997; used in Corvette C4 and F-body cars like the Camaro/Firebird): roughly 275–330 hp depending on year and emissions controls.
- LS1 (1997–2004; used in Corvette C5 and later in Camaro/Firebird): about 345–350 hp.
- LS6 (2001–2004; Corvette Z06 variant): 405 hp.
- Vortec 5700 (1999–2007; 5.7L used in Silverado/Sierra and full-size GM trucks/SUVs): typically around 255–290 hp depending on year and configuration.
The figures above reflect typical factory ratings. Exact horsepower can vary by model year, market, drivetrain, exhaust, and region-specific calibrations.
LT1 details
The LT1 powered several late-1990s Chevrolet performance cars and was a cornerstone of the C4-era lineup. Through its run, output gradually evolved with refinements to fuel delivery, emissions, and cooling, landing in the broad 275–330 hp range by late in its production.
LS1 details
The LS1 marked a shift to a more modern fuel-injected design and became the backbone of the late-1990s/early-2000s performance lineup. In Corvette models, LS1 output settled around 345–350 hp, contributing to strong performance across the line, including later Camaro/Firebird adaptations.
LS6 details
The LS6 is the high-performance variant used in the Corvette Z06. It raised the horsepower ceiling to 405 hp, delivering a notably stronger package for enthusiasts seeking track-ready capability from the 5.7L family.
Vortec 5700 details
In trucks and SUVs, the Vortec 5700 powered a broad range of models. Its horsepower sits lower than the sport-focused variants, typically in the 255–290 hp band, reflecting different tuning goals and duty-cycle requirements for GM’s light-duty trucks.
How to verify horsepower for your specific vehicle
Because outputs vary by year, model, and market, use these steps to confirm your exact rating.
- Check the manufacturer’s window sticker or Monroney label for the precise horsepower rating listed at the time of sale.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the official GM spec sheet for your exact model and year.
- Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to pull up the factory build sheet or GM databases that list engine specs.
- If you have aftermarket modifications, note that horsepower may be affected; verify with a dyno run or professional assessment.
In practice, these steps will yield the precise horsepower rating for your specific 5.7L Chevy engine, taking into account any regional or trim-level differences.
Summary
The 5.7-liter Chevy V8 family spans several generations and configurations, so there isn’t a single horsepower figure. Typical factory outputs range from about 255 hp in the Vortec 5700 trucks to around 350 hp in LS1-equipped cars, with the top-end LS6 Z06 variant delivering 405 hp. For an exact number, identify your model year and engine code, then consult the official GM specifications or a trusted VIN-based resource.
