What engine did a 57 Chevy come with?
The 1957 Chevy is most famously associated with Chevrolet’s 283 cubic‑inch small‑block V8, though other powerplants were also available depending on model and option packages.
Engine options for the 1957 Chevrolet
Chevrolet offered a mix of options that year, with the new small‑block V8 at the center of performance-oriented models alongside the traditional inline‑six powertrains.
- 235 cubic‑inch inline‑six (a traditional baseline engine for many trims)
- 283 cubic‑inch small‑block V8 (the flagship V8 introduced with the 1957 redesign)
In addition to the carbureted configurations, the 283 V8 could be equipped with different carburetion setups, and a notable performance variant appeared on select models.
Notable variants and historical notes
The Corvette benefited from a special option for the 283 V8: Ramjet fuel injection, which debuted in 1957 and is widely cited as the first production fuel‑injected engine in an American car. This injection setup highlighted Chevrolet’s push toward high performance in the late 1950s.
What this means for a 57 Chevy today
For collectors and restorers, the engine under the hood of a 1957 Chevy typically points to one of two paths: the standard inline‑six or the more iconic 283 V8. Exact engine availability depended on the exact model (Bel Air, 150/210, Nomad, etc.) and the production period within the 1957 model year, making accurate identification important for authenticity and value.
Summary: The 1957 Chevrolet is best remembered for its new 283 cubic‑inch small‑block V8, which defined the year’s performance image, though inline‑six options remained on some trims. The Corvette’s 283 with Ramjet fuel injection stands out as a landmark in automotive history.
Summary: In short, if you’re thinking of a 1957 Chevy’s engine, the core answer is the 283 small‑block V8, with the inline‑six serving as a practical alternative on certain models, and the Corvette offering a notable Ramjet‑injected variant of the 283.
