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What engines were available in the 1979 Chevy truck?

The 1979 Chevy truck, also known as the C/K series, offered a range of engine options to meet the diverse needs of truck buyers. From powerful V8s to efficient inline-sixes, the 1979 Chevy truck provided a variety of engine choices to suit different driving requirements and preferences.


Engine Lineup for the 1979 Chevy Truck


The 1979 Chevy truck was available with the following engine options:



  • 4.1L (250 cu in) Inline-6 Engine - This was the base engine option, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency.

  • 5.0L (305 cu in) V8 Engine - A popular choice, this V8 offered more power and performance compared to the inline-6.li>
  • 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 Engine - The largest engine option, the 5.7L V8 delivered impressive power and torque for towing and hauling heavy loads.

  • 6.6L (400 cu in) V8 Engine - The top-of-the-line engine, the 6.6L V8 provided the most power and capability for the 1979 Chevy truck.li>

These engine options allowed Chevy truck buyers to choose the right balance of power, efficiency, and capability to meet their specific needs, whether for work, recreation, or everyday driving.


Engine Specifications and Performance


The 4.1L inline-6 engine produced around 110 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, providing a solid foundation for the 1979 Chevy truck. The 5.0L V8 generated approximately 150 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque, offering a significant power boost. The 5.7L V8 delivered around 170 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, making it a popular choice for towing and hauling. At the top of the range, the 6.6L V8 produced approximately 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, providing the ultimate in power and capability for the 1979 Chevy truck.p>

These engine options, combined with the truck's rugged design and various trim levels, allowed Chevy to offer a 1979 truck that could meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from work-focused buyers to those seeking a more powerful and capable vehicle for personal use.

How much is a 1979 Chevy C10 worth today?


A 1979 Chevy C10's value varies significantly based on condition, with prices for average models in good condition ranging from around $11,000 to $25,400, but exceptional examples can reach well over $50,000. The highest price paid at auction in recent years was $66,000 for an exceptional example, while lower-priced trucks can be found for under $11,000 if they need significant work. Factors like mileage, options, engine, and overall history play a large role in the final value.
 
Factors influencing value

  • Condition: This is the most significant factor. A perfectly restored or a very well-maintained truck will be worth far more than one with rust, extensive wear, or poor modifications.
  • Mileage: Lower mileage generally means higher value.
  • Engine and options: Certain engines and factory options, especially rarer ones, can increase value.
  • History: A truck with a documented history, especially one without accidents or title issues, will be worth more. 

Price breakdown
  • Average Condition: Expect to pay approximately $11,000 to $25,400 for a C10 in good condition with average specifications.
  • High Condition: Excellent examples can command prices over $46,100.
  • Top-tier: Some rare or exceptionally well-maintained trucks have sold for up to $66,000 at auction.
  • Lower Condition: Trucks with significant maintenance needs or damage can be purchased for under $11,000. 



What engines are available in the 71 C10?


The 1971 C10 engine options were a 250 cid inline-six, the optional 292 cid inline-six, and three small-block V8s: the 307 cid, 350 cid, and 400 cid. Buyers could choose from various combinations of these engines, with the six-cylinders being more common and the V8s being considered luxury options at the time.
 
This video discusses the engine options and their performance in the C10: 57sTruck KingYouTube · Sep 9, 2023
Engine options

  • 250 cid Inline-6: The standard, reliable base engine. 
  • 292 cid Inline-6: A more powerful option that provided increased torque. 
  • 307 cid V8: A small-block V8 option producing around 200 horsepower. 
  • 350 cid V8: A popular small-block V8 choice. 
  • 400 cid V8: A larger small-block V8 option. 

Additional details
  • Transmission: In addition to the engines, buyers had a choice of transmissions, including three-speed manual, four-speed manual, and automatic options. 
  • Customization: While these were the factory options, many trucks have since had engine swaps with a wide variety of aftermarket engines, notes Reddit users. 



What is the difference between a Chevy 3100 and 3200?


The Chevrolet Task Force (or in some cases, Task-Force) is a light-duty (3100-short bed & 3200-long bed) and medium-duty (3600) truck series by Chevrolet introduced in 1955, its first major redesign since 1947.



What engine came in a 1979 Chevy C10?


Features of the 1979 Chevrolet C10
The standard engine was a 250-cubic-inch inline-six, which provided a balance of power and fuel efficiency. For those looking for more power, Chevrolet also offered a 305-cubic-inch V8 and a 350-cubic-inch V8, which provided increased horsepower and torque.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.