How much HP does a 1986 Chevy 350 have?

In 1986, the 5.7L (350) V8 used across Chevrolet cars and trucks produced about 165–190 horsepower in most standard configurations, with high-performance variants commonly rated around 230–245 horsepower. The exact number depends on model and emission system.

Overview of the 1986 350 V8

The Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch V8 was part of GM's small-block family and powered a wide range of vehicles in 1986. Emission controls and fuel-delivery technologies varied by model, so the horsepower figure you see on a spec sheet can differ based on whether the engine used a carburetor, throttle-body injection (TBI), or Tuned Port Injection (TPI).

Typical horsepower by configuration:

• Base 350 engines in many trucks and non-performance cars: typically 165–190 hp


• Throttle-body injected (TBI) 5.7L V8 in some cars and trucks: commonly around 170–190 hp, depending on market and equipment


• Tuned Port Injection (TPI) or higher-output 350s in performance models: roughly 230–245 hp

In sum, most standard 1986 350 engines produced for everyday Chevrolet models fell in the 165–190 hp range, while high-performance variants in Corvette/Camaro-Firebird lines were in the 230–245 hp neighborhood.

Notable models and horsepower ranges

In addition to the general ranges, different Chevrolet models used the 350 in ways that affected final horsepower. Here’s a quick look at how common configurations lined up across popular vehicles.

Model-focused notes

High-performance variants found in Corvette and certain Camaro/Firebird configurations typically carried higher power ratings (roughly 230–245 hp). Everyday full-size Chevys and trucks were usually in the 165–190 hp range.

• Corvette and performance Camaro/Firebird variants: typically around 230–245 hp


• Full-size cars (Caprice/Impala) and trucks (C/K series): commonly 165–190 hp

These ranges reflect SAE net horsepower figures common at the time and acknowledge that exact numbers vary by equipment, emission controls, and market.

How horsepower was measured in 1986

In 1986, GM used SAE net horsepower ratings, which reflect the engine as installed in a vehicle with standard equipment (exhaust, intake, alternator, radiator, etc.). These ratings are typically lower than earlier gross horsepower figures and can differ from modern estimates. For precise numbers, refer to the original window sticker (Monroney) or GM service literature for the exact model and engine code.

Finding the exact horsepower for your engine

To determine the exact horsepower for a specific 1986 Chevy 350 engine in your vehicle, use documentation and identifiers that tie to the original build configuration.

• Check the original window sticker or build sheet for horsepower ratings.


• Look up the engine code/RPO (Regular Production Option) codes in the glove box or door jamb; cross-reference with factory data to confirm the spec.


• Consult the owner's manual or a GM service manual for the exact model year and engine option.

If you no longer have the documentation, you can estimate by comparing VIN/engine code against GM documentation or consult a classic Chevy specialist for the precise configuration and rating.

Summary

The horsepower of a 1986 Chevy 350 V8 depended on how it was configured and what model it powered. Standard, non-performance installations typically produced about 165–190 hp, while high-performance variants in Corvettes and certain Camaros/Firebirds ran in the 230–245 hp range. For an exact figure, verify the engine code and consult original GM documentation or a trusted reference for the specific vehicle.

How much horsepower does a 1986 c10 have?

It's powered by a built 383 stroker V8 engine with a 400 automatic transmission. There is a lot of money invested in to the mechanicals of this pickup including a dyno under a year ago that shows an estimated 385 horsepower.

How much HP does a stock 5.7 350 have?

The horsepower of a 5.7L 350 engine varies significantly, from approximately 140 to over 370 horsepower in factory stock versions, depending on the year, model, and application. With modern performance parts, builds can easily exceed 400 horsepower, and specialized configurations can produce even more.
 
Factory stock horsepower

• Lower end: Many 350s from the late 1970s and early 1980s, built to meet emissions standards, were rated around 145 to 175 horsepower.
• Higher end: Factory performance versions, such as those in muscle cars, could produce over 300 horsepower, with some peak ratings reaching up to 370 horsepower. 

Modern and custom builds

• Performance upgrades: A well-built 350 with performance upgrades can easily produce 350 to 400 horsepower on pump gas. 
• High-performance crate engines: Crate engines are available with a wide range of horsepower ratings. For example, a Chevrolet Performance crate engine is rated at 357 horsepower, while other high-performance kits are designed to produce 370 or more horsepower. 
• Extreme builds: With forced induction (like superchargers or turbochargers) or other modifications, a 350 can be built to produce 400 horsepower or significantly more. 

Factors that affect horsepower

• Camshaft: A higher-performance camshaft can significantly increase horsepower. 
• Cylinder heads: Performance cylinder heads with larger intake runners and higher flow rates are a major factor in boosting power. 
• Carburetion/fuel injection: The type of intake and carburetor or fuel injection system plays a large role. 
• Exhaust system: A free-flowing exhaust system can improve overall engine performance. 

What year is the best Chevy 350 engine?

The best Chevy 350 engine is often considered to be the 1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L due to its significant improvements in performance and efficiency. This version features Vortec cylinder heads for better airflow and the more durable hydraulic roller camshaft. While earlier models were simpler, later ones like the Vortec offered a stronger block design (880 casting), which is ideal for high-performance builds. 
This video explains the advantages of the Vortec 5.7L engine: 58sMyvintageiron7512YouTube · Mar 17, 2023
1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L 

• Vortec cylinder heads: Significantly improved airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to better performance and fuel economy. 
• Hydraulic roller camshaft: This provides greater durability and reduced wear on the valvetrain compared to older flat-tappet cams. 
• Stronger block: Blocks with the "880" casting number were used during this time and are built for roller cams, making them a great foundation for building a high-performance engine. 

Other notable years

• Early 1990s (with roller cam): These engines are also desirable because they came with a roller valvetrain, but some may lack a provision for a mechanical fuel pump. 
• 1970 LT-1: For those seeking raw, early-era power, the 1970 LT-1 version is a legendary, high-performance option with solid lifters and high compression. 
• 1986 and newer (one-piece rear main seal): Engines from 1986 and newer are equipped with a one-piece rear main seal, which is different from the two-piece seal found on older engines. This distinction is important when selecting a compatible flywheel or flexplate. 

How much horsepower does a 1985 Chevy 350 have?

A stock 1985 Chevy 350 engine typically produced around 190 horsepower, with variations depending on the specific vehicle and configuration. The 1985 model year featured a few 350 cubic inch engine options, such as the LT9, which produced 160 hp, while other 350s may have been rated between 190-210 hp, depending on the application and factory tuning. 

• LT9 engine: The LT9 engine, found in some 1985 models, was rated at around 160 hp. 
• General 1985 350: Other 1985 350 engines generally fell in the 190-210 hp range, with specific ratings depending on the vehicle. 
• Horsepower vs. torque: It's also important to consider torque, as the 1985 350s typically generated around 250-280 lb-ft of torque. 
• Stock vs. modified: Stock ratings are much lower than what can be achieved with aftermarket parts. Upgrades can easily push a 350 to 300+ horsepower, and even higher with more extensive modifications.