What engine was in a 1965 Chevy C10?
In 1965, the Chevy C10 could be equipped with a 230 cubic inch inline-six or one of two small-block V8s, the 283 or the 327.
The 1965 C10 was part of Chevrolet’s first-generation C/K pickup line and offered a straightforward engine lineup designed to balance economy with hauling capability. The available powertrains reflected GM’s approach at the time: a reliable six-cylinder base paired with two V8 options for buyers demanding more torque and towing power. The specific engine installed on a given truck could vary by build date, trim level, and factory option packages.
Engine options for the 1965 C10
The following engine options were available for 1965 C10 pickups, with availability depending on build date and trim.
- Inline-six: 230 cubic inch (3.8 L) four-stroke inline-six (I6) as the base engine.
- V8 option: 283 cubic inch (4.6 L) small-block V8, typically offered with a two-barrel carburetor and occasional four-barrel upgrades.
- V8 option: 327 cubic inch (5.4 L) small-block V8, available with two- or four-barrel carburetors for higher performance.
In practice, many 1965 C10s used one of these powertrains, while some trucks were later swapped or upgraded by owners and dealers.
How to confirm the engine in your 1965 C10
To determine which engine your specific 1965 C10 has, start with the vehicle’s data plate and any original build sheets or documentation. Engine block casting numbers and stamping can also reveal the exact displacement and Chevrolet small-block family. If needed, a qualified classic-truck mechanic can corroborate the original engine by cross-referencing the VIN, chassis code, and engine stamps.
Performance and maintenance considerations
The 230 inline-six offered dependable daily performance and easier maintenance, making it a practical baseline for work trucks. The 283 and 327 V8s delivered noticeably more torque and higher hauling capacity, at the cost of increased fuel use and slightly more complex maintenance. Wheelbase, transmission choice, and axle gearing also influenced how each engine felt in everyday use.
Summary
The 1965 Chevy C10 offered three primary powertrains: a 230 cu in inline-six, and two small-block V8s (283 and 327 cu in). Availability varied by build date and configuration, with many trucks shipped from the factory with the inline-six as standard and V8 options as popular upgrades. For collectors and restorers, identifying the engine typically involves checking the data plate, block stamps, and any surviving build documentation.
How much horsepower does a 1965 Chevy 283 have?
A 1965 Chevy 283 engine had two main horsepower ratings: 195 hp with a two-barrel carburetor and 220 hp with a four-barrel carburetor. The 220 hp version had a higher compression ratio, a four-barrel carburetor, and was rated for more torque.
You can watch this video to learn more about the history and performance of the Chevy 283 engine: 52sEpic MotorsYouTube · Jun 17, 2025
- 2-barrel version: Advertised at 195 hp, it came with a Rochester two-barrel carburetor.
- 4-barrel version: Advertised at 220 hp, it used a four-barrel carburetor, had a higher compression ratio, and produced more torque.
How much is a 1965 C10 worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $18,629 for a 1965 Chevrolet C10 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.
What motor came in the Chevy C10?
The standard engine was a 250 cid, in-line 6. Chevrolet's famous 350 cid small block V8 was the next engine choice. In 1975 Chevrolet also offered the mighty 454 cid big block V8 as a $340 option in the C10, creating what many suggest was the fastest accelerating vehicle that GM built that year.
What engine came in the 1965 Chevy C10?
Standard engine is the economical High Torque 230 Six with the big 292 Six or 283 V8 available at extra cost.
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