What engine came in a 1991 Chevy S10?
The 1991 Chevy S-10 offered three engine choices: a 2.5-liter inline-four, a 2.8-liter V6, and a 4.3-liter V6.
This article explains those options and how they were used across the 1991 S-10 lineup, including which trims commonly paired with each engine and what kind of performance buyers could expect.
Engine options for the 1991 S-10
Below are the primary engine choices that were available in the 1991 S-10, reflecting the range across base, extended cab, and higher-trim models.
- 2.5-liter inline-four (GM Iron Duke family) – The base engine on lower trims, offering modest power with a focus on efficiency. It was commonly paired with either a manual or automatic transmission.
- 2.8-liter V6 – The mid-range upgrade, providing more torque and smoother operation for those needing extra capability on the highway or for lighter towing.
- 4.3-liter V6 – The largest engine option, delivering the most power and payload capability, typically found on higher trims and extended cab models.
Each engine option could be paired with different transmissions and configurations depending on the specific model, body style, and options chosen by the buyer.
Details by engine
2.5-liter inline-four
The 2.5-liter inline-four was the S-10’s base engine. It offered economical operation suitable for daily driving and light-duty use, with performance tuned for efficiency rather than raw torque. This engine was commonly found in lower trims and could be paired with a manual or automatic transmission depending on the build.
2.8-liter V6
The 2.8-liter V6 provided a noticeable step up in power and refinement compared with the four-cylinder. It was a popular upgrade for buyers needing stronger acceleration and better performance on highways or in mid-range payload scenarios, available with various transmission options.
4.3-liter V6
The 4.3-liter V6 was the top engine option for the 1991 S-10, delivering the highest level of power and towing/payload capability. It was typically offered on higher-trim configurations and extended cab models, matching larger cabins and more demanding workloads.
Summary
In 1991, the Chevy S-10 offered a three-engine lineup to cover a range of needs: the economical 2.5-liter inline-four, the versatile 2.8-liter V6, and the capable 4.3-liter V6. Buyers could select the engine that best matched their balance of daily driving, payload, and performance requirements, with corresponding transmission options to suit each setup.
