How much horsepower does a 87 TBI 350 have?
The 1987 5.7-liter V8 with throttle-body injection (TBI) typically produced about 210 horsepower, with some variants rated closer to 190 horsepower depending on emission calibration and vehicle application.
Understanding the 87 TBI 350
In 1987, General Motors used a throttle-body injected 5.7-liter V8 (the 350) in many full-size pickups, vans, and some SUVs. The TBI setup was common before the shift to multi-point injection across later years. Ratings in that era were published as engine output at the crank, with variations based on the specific model and market.
Official horsepower and torque
Below is a concise snapshot of the typical factory figures for the 87 TBI 350 as it appeared in GM light trucks and vans. Note that these values refer to the engine’s output at the crank and can differ from what you might measure on a chassis dyno or at the wheels.
- Displacement: 5.7 L (350 cu in)
- Induction: Throttle Body Injection (TBI)
- Horsepower: 210 hp (SAE Net); some emissions-calibrated versions listed around 190–200 hp
- Torque: approximately 330 lb-ft (SAE Net)
- Peak horsepower typically around 3,900–4,000 rpm
- Peak torque typically around 2,000–2,400 rpm
These figures reflect typical factory ratings for the era. Real-world numbers can vary based on vehicle weight, drivetrain, exhaust condition, altitude, and maintenance.
Variations by model and calibration
Not every GM vehicle with the 1987 TBI 350 used identical calibration. Vans, full-size pickups, and SUVs shared the same basic engine, but emissions regulations, transmission pairing, and even regional rules could lead to minor horsepower variations. In some cases, higher-output applications or different gearing could yield slightly different performance characteristics, although the commonly cited target hovered around the 190–210 hp range.
Real-world considerations
Owners evaluating a used 1987 TBI 350 should consider that wear on fuel injectors, ignition components, and the exhaust system can affect output. A well-maintained engine with clean fuel delivery and proper timing will approach the published figures more closely, while neglect or poor maintenance can reduce it noticeably. Additionally, drivetrain losses mean horsepower at the wheels will be somewhat lower than the crank rating.
Summary
For the 1987 5.7-liter V8 with throttle-body injection, the baseline horsepower is typically cited around 210 hp at the crank, with some versions rated near 190 hp. Torque generally sits around 330 lb-ft, with peak power and torque occurring in the mid-range of the engine’s RPM band. When shopping for an 87 TBI 350, expect minor variation depending on vehicle, emissions calibration, and condition.
In brief: about 210 horsepower, with variations by model and calibration, and around 330 lb-ft of torque. The exact figure depends on the specific vehicle application and its maintenance history.
