What motor is in a 85 Monte Carlo SS?

The 1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS was a high-performance variant of the popular Monte Carlo coupe, known for its bold styling and powerful engine. At the heart of this iconic muscle car was a V8 engine that delivered impressive power and acceleration.

The 5.0L V8 Engine

The 1985 Monte Carlo SS was equipped with a 5.0-liter (305 cubic inch) V8 engine. This engine was part of Chevrolet's small-block V8 engine family, which had a long and storied history in the brand's performance vehicles.

The 5.0L V8 in the Monte Carlo SS produced 180 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This provided the car with brisk acceleration and a top speed of around 130 mph. The engine was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, which helped to deliver the power to the rear wheels efficiently.

Engine Features and Specifications

• Displacement: 5.0 liters (305 cubic inches)


• Cylinder configuration: V8


• Horsepower: 180 hp


• Torque: 240 lb-ft


• Transmission: 4-speed automatic


• Fuel system: Throttle-body fuel injection

The 5.0L V8 in the 1985 Monte Carlo SS was a robust and reliable engine that provided the car with impressive performance for its time. Its combination of power, torque, and efficiency made it a popular choice among muscle car enthusiasts.

How much horsepower does a 1985 Chevy 305 have?

A 1985 Chevy 305 engine typically produced between 145 and 170 horsepower for the carbureted versions (like the LG4) and was rated higher in performance versions. However, the high-performance, 305 TPI (Tune-Port Injection) engine, introduced in 1985, could have around 190 to 215 horsepower. The exact horsepower varied depending on the specific engine RPO code and configuration, with the LG4 being the most common. 
You can watch this video to learn about the different horsepower ratings of the Chevy 305 engine: 54sRatMaroYouTube · Jan 17, 2023
Horsepower by configuration

• LG4 (Carbureted): This was the most common 305 in 1985.
  • Horsepower: 145 to 170 hp. 
• L69 (High Output): This high-performance version was available in specific models like the Camaro Z28 and IROC-Z. 
  • Horsepower: Around 190 hp. 
• LB9 (TPI): This was the new high-performance, fuel-injected engine. 
  • Horsepower: 190 to 215 hp. 

Key takeaways

• The 1985 Chevy 305 was available in different versions, each with varying horsepower ratings. 
• The most common versions, the LG4, were economy-focused with lower horsepower. 
• Performance versions like the L69 and the new LB9 TPI offered significantly more power. 
• The TPI engine was a key development that year, prioritizing torque at lower RPMs. 

This video shows the difference between the 305 and 350 Chevy engines: 52sMyvintageiron7512YouTube · Nov 22, 2016

What motor did the Monte Carlo SS come with?

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS engine varies by model year, ranging from the 1980s' 5.0-liter V8 to the late-2000s' 5.3-liter V8, with a 3.8-liter V6 being a common option in the early 2000s. Later models also offered a supercharged 3.8-liter V6, and some had a powerful 303-horsepower 5.3-liter V8.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine in the 2000s Monte Carlo SS models: 41sDoug DeMuroYouTube · Apr 17, 2025
Engine options by generation

• 1980s: The SS model was reintroduced with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 175 horsepower. 
• Early 2000s: The standard engine was a 3.8-liter V6 that generated 200 horsepower. 
• 2004-2005: Some models included a supercharged 3.8-liter V6 that produced 240 horsepower. 
• 2006-2007: The final generation of the Monte Carlo SS featured a 5.3-liter V8, generating 303 horsepower. 

This video shows a 1970 Monte Carlo SS with a 454 big-block V8: 0:59Lost Auto StoryYouTube · Apr 17, 2025

How much is a 1985 Monte Carlo SS worth?

The price for a 1985 Monte Carlo SS varies widely, with average prices around $17,200 to $29,574, while listing prices can range from about $20,895 to over $40,995 depending on condition and features. Expect to pay more for exceptionally well-maintained or modified examples, and less for those with significant repair needs. The original MSRP in 1985 was about $11,794 for the SS model.
 
Factors that influence the price

• Condition: A car in good, clean condition will be priced higher than one needing extensive work, such as paint, interior, or mechanical repairs. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage examples command higher prices. 
• History and Modifications: Well-documented history, original components, or desirable modifications can increase value. Rarity, like the original 305ci engine, also plays a role. 
• Market fluctuations: Prices can fluctuate based on current demand and specific sales, with some auction examples reaching over $38,500 for exceptional cars. 

Examples of prices

• Average condition: Around $17,200
• Average online listing: Around $29,574
• High-end auction sale: Up to $38,500
• Lower end: Around $13,790 at auction for a car needing repairs 

What engine does a 1985 Monte Carlo SS have?

The small block 305 5.0 liter V8's were fitted with computer-controlled 2-barrel Quadrajet carburetors that include an automatic choke for easy engine turn over and start.