How much horsepower does a Chevy 2.8 V-6 have?
The power output of the Chevy 2.8 L V-6 isn’t a single figure; it depends on the specific variant and year, but most versions fall roughly between 110 and 150 horsepower.
This article explains why there isn’t one universal number and provides representative ranges, plus guidance on how to verify the exact horsepower for a specific vehicle.
Representative horsepower ranges by era
Note: these ranges reflect typical outputs across common 2.8 L V-6 configurations and can vary with tuning, fuel delivery, and emissions equipment.
- 1980s 2.8 L V-6: roughly 110–125 horsepower.
- 1990s 2.8 L V-6 in light trucks and vans: roughly 125–150 horsepower.
- Late-1990s/rare variants: up to about 150 horsepower in some applications.
The figures above illustrate the general trend: horsepower tended to rise modestly as fuel delivery and emissions controls evolved, but there isn’t a single number that covers all models.
What factors influence horsepower
Several variables determine the exact power output of a given 2.8 L V-6 vehicle.
- Vehicle application: Cars, SUVs, vans and light trucks wore different tuning and gearing that affected peak power.
- Fuel delivery and ignition: Carbureted designs versus fuel-injected layouts can yield different horsepower figures.
- Emissions controls and calibration: Smog-era components often reduced peak power compared with earlier configurations; some versions aimed for higher performance or efficiency.
- Engine condition and maintenance: Wear, timing, and fuel quality can reduce or alter the engine’s rated output.
In practice, the exact horsepower for a given vehicle results from a mix of these factors, so the precise number should be verified for that specific car.
How to determine the exact horsepower for your Chevy 2.8 L V-6
To confirm the precise horsepower for your vehicle, rely on official sources and the vehicle’s identifiers.
- Locate the VIN and the engine code on the vehicle’s data plate or door jamb sticker.
- Look up the original equipment specification (OE) for that VIN through GM’s service literature or at a dealership.
- Consult the owner’s manual or service manuals for model/year horsepower ratings.
- If needed, contact a GM dealership with your VIN to obtain the exact factory rating from the build sheet or data sheet.
Using these steps will yield the exact horsepower for your specific 2.8 L V-6 configuration rather than relying on generic ranges.
Summary
There isn’t a single horsepower figure for the Chevy 2.8 L V-6 because the engine was used across various GM models and years. Typical outputs span from about 110 to 150 horsepower, with precise numbers varying by application and tuning. For accuracy, verify the rating with the vehicle’s VIN and official GM specifications. If you can share the model and year, I can pull out the most relevant figure for that exact configuration.
How much horsepower does a 1987 Chevy S10 2.8 have?
A powerful 2.8 Liter V6 with Electronic Fuel Injection is optional on all S-10 Pickups. SAE net horsepower is 125 at 4,800 RPM; net torque is 150 ft. -lbs.
How much horsepower does a 2.8 L vr6 have?
A stock 2.8L VW VR6 engine produces 172 to 178 horsepower depending on the specific vehicle and tuning. The 178 hp version was used in models like the 1992 Volkswagen Corrado VR6, while the 172 hp version was used in models like the North American Passat.
- 178 hp: This output was featured in the original Volkswagen Corrado VR6 and was a common performance option for the engine, notes CarBuzz and this Forza Wiki page.
- 172 hp: This version was used in the North American Passat B3 and some other models.
- 174 hp: Some versions produced this amount of power, such as the one found in some Volkswagen Golf Mk3 models.
- Later versions: Later versions of the VR6, such as the 24-valve 2.8L, produced more horsepower, with some reaching 204 hp.
How reliable is the Chevy 2.8 V6?
However, despite their popularity, these trucks often face recurring reliability issues. Many owners deal with turbocharger failures, fuel system issues, and other frustrating 2.8 Duramax issues. Additionally, EGR clogs and excessive carbon buildup frequently reduce engine performance and trigger warning lights.
How much horsepower does a 2.8 L V6 have?
The horsepower of a 2.8L V6 engine varies significantly depending on the specific model and manufacturer, with power outputs ranging from around 115 hp for older Ford engines to over 210 hp for more modern GM engines. For example, the 1985 Ford Ranger's 2.8L V6 had 115 horsepower, while the GM 2.8L LP1 engine, found in vehicles like the 2005 Cadillac CTS, produced 210 horsepower. A 2.8L turbocharged V6 from General Motors, used in Saab models, produced 258 lb-ft of torque and 89 hp per liter, resulting in over 200 hp.
Examples of 2.8L V6 horsepower
- Ford 2.8L Cologne V6: Around 115 hp in a 1985 Ford Ranger.
- GM 2.8L High Output V6: 140 hp in the Pontiac Fiero.
- GM 2.8L LP1 V6: 210 hp in the 2005 Cadillac CTS.
- GM 2.8L Turbocharged V6: Approximately 89 hp per liter, for a total that depends on the specific application.
- Audi 2.8L V6: Around 190 hp for a 2000-2001 model.
