What engine is in a 1991 Chevrolet Lumina?
The 1991 Chevrolet Lumina offered three main engine options: a 2.5-liter inline-four, a 2.8-liter V6, or a 3.1-liter V6, depending on trim and market.
GM’s Lumina lineup for the 1991 model year could be configured with a smaller four-cylinder for economy or one of two V6 options for smoother performance. Exact engine identification depends on the specific car's trim, options, and production details; checking the engine code on the block or the VIN can confirm the exact configuration.
Engine options in the Lumina lineup
Below are the main engine choices typically found in the 1991 Lumina, reflecting the range offered to buyers that year.
- 2.5-liter inline-four (Iron Duke) — the base engine providing modest power and better fuel economy.
- 2.8-liter V6 — a mid-range option offering more torque and smoother operation than the four-cylinder.
- 3.1-liter V6 — the largest available engine, delivering the strongest performance in the lineup.
Engine availability varied by body style and market, with some configurations more common on certain trims or regions. For an exact match, verify the engine code on the engine block or consult the vehicle’s documentation.
Performance and specs at a glance
Power output for these engines varied by year and tuning, but typical ranges for the 1991 Lumina were approximately as follows.
- 2.5L inline-four: roughly 90–110 horsepower and 130–140 lb-ft of torque.
- 2.8L V6: roughly 125–140 horsepower and 150–165 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.1L V6: roughly 150–165 horsepower and 180–200 lb-ft of torque.
These figures reflect early-1990s ratings and can differ by emissions equipment, market, and specific model year.
Engine identification and verification
To confirm which engine a specific 1991 Lumina has, locate the engine code stamped on the engine block or refer to the vehicle’s VIN decoding information. This will definitively identify whether the car uses the 2.5L I4, the 2.8L V6, or the 3.1L V6.
Summary
In short, the 1991 Chevrolet Lumina offered three primary engine choices: a 2.5-liter inline-four, a 2.8-liter V6, and a 3.1-liter V6. The exact engine depends on the car’s trim and configuration, so verification via engine code or VIN is the best way to confirm the specification for a given vehicle.
