Is Toyota 5.7 same as Chevy?
Two brands use a roughly 5.7-liter displacement, but they are not the same engine. Toyota’s 5.7L V8 and Chevrolet’s 5.7L V8 come from different design families and are not directly interchangeable.
Both engines sit in the same broad displacement category, yet they differ in architecture, fuel management, materials, and intended vehicle applications. The Toyota version (commonly the 3UR-FE) is a modern DOHC V8 used in trucks and SUVs, while Chevrolet’s 5.7L small-block is the classic OHV V8 that powered many GM trucks and cars for decades. This article explains the key differences and what they mean for owners and buyers.
Engine families and architecture
Toyota 5.7L V8 (3UR-FE)
The Toyota 5.7L V8 is a modern overhead-cam design with multiple valves per cylinder and variable valve timing. It belongs to Toyota’s UR engine family and is used in large Toyota trucks and SUVs. The layout emphasizes smooth power delivery, a broader rev range for a V8, and advanced emission and engine-management systems.
Chevrolet 5.7L small-block
Chevrolet’s 5.7L is the classic small-block V8, an overhead-valve pushrod design with two valves per cylinder. This architecture has powered GM trucks, vans, and performance cars for generations and typically uses port fuel injection on the 5.7L variants. It has a long production history and extensive aftermarket support.
Both engines deliver strong torque, but their construction dictates different maintenance needs and compatibility with components such as mounts, transmissions, and electronics.
Key differences at a glance
The following bullets summarize the main contrasts between Toyota’s 5.7L V8 and Chevrolet’s 5.7L small-block. These points help explain why they aren’t interchangeable and why they feel different in vehicles.
- Engine architecture: DOHC 32-valve V8 with advanced timing vs OHV pushrod V8 with two valves per cylinder
- Displacement emphasis: both near 5.7 L, but bore/stroke and block design differ, affecting size and weight
- Fuel and induction: Toyota’s modern V8 systems vs Chevy’s traditional port injection on older 5.7 engines
- Performance curves: different torque delivery and horsepower ranges across models
- Compatibility and replacement parts: interchangeable parts are generally brand-specific; cross-brand swaps are not practical
In short, the two engines share a similar label and broad displacement, but their engineering and ecosystems are distinct.
Applications and practical implications
Where you find each engine matters for maintenance, resale value, and upgrades. Toyota’s 5.7L V8 powers vehicles like the Tundra and Sequoia (and some Land Cruiser variants in markets where it’s offered), offering modern electronics, refined throttle response, and a design tuned for Toyota platforms. Chevrolet’s 5.7L small-block has a longer legacy in GM trucks and SUVs, with a robust, service-friendly design and a broad aftermarket.
Because they are built in different families with different mounting points, wiring, and engine-control strategies, swapping one into a vehicle designed for the other is extremely complex and generally impractical. Replacement parts and service procedures are brand-specific and require the appropriate manuals and tools.
How to identify which 5.7 you have
To confirm which engine is in your vehicle, use these steps. They help you avoid misidentification when sourcing parts or planning maintenance.
- Check the engine code stamped or labeled on the engine block or valve cover. Toyota V8s have UR-family prefixes (such as 3UR-FE), while Chevy small-blocks are identified by GM engine families linked to the 5.7L platform.
- Look up the VIN in the manufacturer’s database or service portal to reveal the exact engine specification for your exact model and trim.
- Review the vehicle’s build sheet or window sticker; it lists the original engine code and powertrain configuration.
- Consult a dealer or an independent mechanic with the VIN; they can confirm the engine family and compatibility for parts and service.
Correctly identifying the engine avoids ordering the wrong parts and ensures you follow the right maintenance schedule.
Summary
Toyota’s 5.7L V8 and Chevrolet’s 5.7L V8 are not the same engine. They belong to different design families, have distinct architectures and parts ecosystems, and are not interchangeable without extensive, model- and year-specific customization. For buyers and owners, understanding these differences helps with maintenance planning, parts sourcing, and expectations about performance and reliability.
Is a 5.7 L engine the same as a 350?
Yes, a 5.7L is the same as a 350, as "5.7" refers to the engine's displacement in liters and "350" refers to its displacement in cubic inches. The Chevrolet 350 is a well-known small-block V8 engine with a displacement of 350 cubic inches, which is approximately equal to 5.7 liters.
- Displacement: The "5.7" is the engine's size in liters, while "350" is the same size in cubic inches (5.75.75.7 liters is approximately 350350350 cubic inches).
- Engine family: The 350 is part of the classic Chevrolet small-block V8 engine family.
- Variations: While the displacement is the same, there can be variations in specific models due to differences in fuel delivery (carbureted vs. fuel-injected), block casting, and other components.
Is the Toyota 5.7 L V8 a good engine?
Yes, the Toyota 5.7L V8 is generally considered a very good and reliable engine, known for its longevity and performance, though it has a few known issues. It is praised for its durability and is capable of reaching high mileage with proper maintenance, but potential problems include some early model cam gear and timing chain issues, along with later concerns like broken intake valve springs and oil leaks.
You can watch this video to learn about common issues with the Toyota 5.7L V8 engine: 47sI Do CarsYouTube · Mar 23, 2025
Pros of the Toyota 5.7L V8
- Reliability and longevity: The engine is known for its robust design and can last for hundreds of thousands of miles, with many examples reaching over 400,000 to 500,000 miles.
- Strong performance: It produces a significant amount of horsepower (381381381 hp) and torque (401401401 lb-ft), making it well-suited for towing and heavy-duty use.
- Solid build: The engine is considered "over-built" and can handle more power than it produces stock, with many owners adding superchargers or tuning it for increased performance.
- Timing chain: Unlike some older engines, it uses a timing chain, which typically requires less maintenance and can last the life of the engine.
This video demonstrates how to perform maintenance on the Toyota 5.7L V8 engine: 41s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 21, 2024
Potential drawbacks and common issues
- Early model problems: The first model years (around 2007) had some early issues, including problems with the cam gear and timing chain tensioner.
- Valve issues: There have been reports of broken valve springs and dropped valves, though this is not a universal issue.
- Oil and coolant leaks: Some owners report issues with cam tower oil leaks and coolant leaks from the valley pan.
- Fuel efficiency: As a large V8, it is not very fuel-efficient.
Who makes the Toyota 5.7 engine?
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama
This engine is cast at Toyota's Bodine Aluminum and currently assembled for Sequoia and Tundra at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama and cast and assembled in Tahara, Japan for the Land Cruiser and Lexus vehicles.
Is a 5.7 a Chevy motor?
Yes, Chevrolet has made and continues to make 5.7L (350 cubic inch) engines, with a long history of different versions including the classic small-block and the more modern LS-series engines. While they are no longer in regular production in new vehicles, new and remanufactured 5.7L engines are available through GM Performance and other engine suppliers for crate, marine, and performance applications.
- Classic Small-Block: The 350 (5.7L) is an iconic engine that was introduced in 1967 and was used across the Chevrolet product line for decades. Versions like the Vortec 350 were produced for trucks and SUVs until the early 2000s.
- LS-Series: The LS1, a 5.7L V8, debuted in the 1997-2004 C5 Corvette. It is a more modern, powerful engine compared to the older small-block designs.
- Modern Availability: Chevrolet Performance sells new 350 (5.7L) crate engines that are built with modern metallurgy and technology. These are available through GM dealers and are often used for engine swaps and performance builds.
- Other Applications: 5.7L engines are also available for marine use.
