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How much horsepower does a Chevy Cheyenne have?

Horsepower for a Chevy Cheyenne depends on the model year and the engine installed. In general, early Cheyenne editions used GM V6 and small-block V8s with roughly 150–210 horsepower, while later versions with the 5.7-liter V8 and the Vortec 350 could reach about 255–260 horsepower. For an exact figure, identify the specific year and engine option of the truck in question.


Understanding the Cheyenne edition


The Cheyenne name was used primarily as a trim/appearance package on Chevrolet C/K pickup trucks (and related models) from the 1970s through the 1990s. It signified a particular styling and equipment package, not a single engine. As a result, horsepower varied widely because buyers could choose different engines within each model year.


Engine options and horsepower by era


Because horsepower varied by engine and year, the following overview groups typical Cheyenne power by era and engine type.



  • 4.3L V6 (about 150–195 hp across various years)

  • 5.0L / 305 cu in V8 (about 150–210 hp depending on year and emissions)

  • 5.7L / 350 cu in V8 (roughly 190–230 hp across the 1980s and early 1990s)

  • 5.7L Vortec 350 (about 255–260 hp in the mid-to-late 1990s)


These figures illustrate the range you could see on Cheyenne-trimmed trucks, with actual output tied to the specific engine option and model year chosen by the original buyer.


How to verify horsepower for a specific Cheyenne


To obtain the exact horsepower for a given Cheyenne, follow these steps:



  • Identify the model year and the exact engine option installed in the vehicle.

  • Check the glove box or driver’s door sticker (Vehicle Emission Control Information or VIN-specific engine code) for the listed horsepower or engine code.

  • Consult the Chevrolet/GM factory service manuals or archived brochures for that year and engine combination.

  • Use a reliable online database or GM VIN decoder to cross-check the engine code with horsepower specifications.


Because the Cheyenne was a trim package rather than a single model, the most reliable approach is to locate the vehicle’s original documentation or decode its VIN to determine the exact engine and horsepower.


Summary


The Chevy Cheyenne’s horsepower range is broad because the package spanned several decades and offered multiple engines. Expect roughly 150–195 hp for the 4.3L V6, about 150–210 hp for the 5.0L/305 V8, around 190–230 hp for the 5.7L/350 V8, and up to about 255–260 hp for the later 5.7L Vortec 350 engines. For a precise figure, identify the specific year and engine code of the truck.

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What engine is in a Chevy Cheyenne?


The Cheyenne's engine was a supercharged 6.0 L V8 engine developing approximately 500 hp (370 kW) and 580 lb⋅ft (786 N⋅m) of torque. The vehicle featured an independent rear suspension that with Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system.



Did the Cheyenne have a V6?


The W/T 1500 (W/T stands for Work Truck) was a de-contented version of the Cheyenne marketed primarily for work use and was only available with the 4.3L V6, regular cab, and 8' bed (a 6.5' Fleetside bed was later available); the 454SS combined elements of the Sport Equipment Package with the 7.4L V8 of 3500-series ...



What's special about a Chevy Cheyenne?


It was the pinnacle of the second-generation Chevrolet C/K series, which ran from 1967 to 1972. Known for its stylish design, powerful engine options, and comfortable ride, the Cheyenne Super was a truck that combined utility with luxury, making it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts alike.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.