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What was the last year of the small block Chevy?

The small block Chevrolet engine, also known as the Chevy small-block, was a highly successful and long-running engine design produced by General Motors. This iconic engine was first introduced in 1955 and remained in production for over 50 years, powering a wide range of Chevrolet vehicles. However, all good things must come to an end, and the small block Chevy's reign finally concluded in 2019.


The Small Block Chevy's Storied History


The small block Chevy engine was first introduced in 1955 as a replacement for the older Chevrolet "Stovebolt" six-cylinder and V8 engines. The new small block design was a compact, lightweight, and powerful V8 engine that quickly became a favorite among enthusiasts and racers. Over the decades, the small block Chevy underwent numerous updates and improvements, with displacement ranging from 283 cubic inches (4.6 liters) to 400 cubic inches (6.6 liters).


The small block Chevy powered a wide range of Chevrolet vehicles, from the iconic Corvette sports car to the ubiquitous Chevrolet Impala sedan. It also found its way into countless hot rods, muscle cars, and racing applications, cementing its status as one of the most popular and enduring engine designs in automotive history.


The End of an Era


Despite its long and successful run, the small block Chevy's days were ultimately numbered. In 2019, General Motors announced that the small block V8 would be discontinued, marking the end of an era for this iconic engine. The decision was driven by a combination of factors, including the need to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations and the growing demand for more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced powertrains.


The final iteration of the small block Chevy, the LT1 V8, was produced through the 2019 model year. This engine, which was used in a variety of Chevrolet and Cadillac models, was the last in a long line of small block V8s that had defined the Chevrolet brand for over half a century.


The Legacy of the Small Block Chevy


While the small block Chevy may have reached the end of its production run, its legacy lives on. The engine's combination of power, reliability, and affordability made it a favorite among enthusiasts and racers, and it continues to be a popular choice for engine swaps and custom builds. Additionally, the design principles and engineering innovations that made the small block Chevy so successful have influenced the development of countless other automotive engines over the years.


The small block Chevy's impact on the automotive industry and popular culture is undeniable. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American engineering and the power of innovation to shape the future. Though the engine may be gone, its legacy will continue to inspire and captivate enthusiasts for generations to come.

Is a 427 a big-block?


View ZZ427 / 480 Deluxe. Not-your-dad's Corvette engine — a modern big-block powerhouse.



What does LS stand for in Chevy?


Luxury Sport
The Luxury Sport Small Block Chevy Engine
The LS or Luxury Sport engine began as a V8 gas engine, and the LS name came from the code “LS1” used by Chevrolet to designate the Chevy Corvette's third generation engine.



What is a 8.1 Chevy engine?


This engine was intended to replace the earlier 7.4 Liter Vortec engine and provided increased power and torque. It's very similar to the Chevy 454, sharing the same bore size but has a larger 4.37-inch stroke. The 8.1 Liter Workhorse engine has been praised for its impressive power output and towing capabilities.



What was the last year for the 454 big-block?


2001
The revised 454 (now known as the Vortec 7400) was good for a whopping 290hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, and it was offered until 2001 (the final year for commercial and recreational vehicle use).



Is a 5.7 L engine the same as a 350?


As a few people explained already, 350 is 5.7 liters in cubic inches. 350 cubic inch engine is part of a large group of engines referred to as "Chevrolet small-block". The original small-block Chevy engine appeared in 1955.



Is a 4.8 Chevy engine a 327?


Essentially, the 4.8L is a destroked 5.3L, much like the original 327 was a destroked 350 and the 302 was a destroked 327.



Is a 454 a small-block Chevy?


You read right: 454 cubes in a small-block crate engine, and not an exotic, tall-deck block with a bunch of specialized components, but in a regular ol' Chevy-type package that bolts right into anything that'll swallow a conventional small-block Chevy.



How much horsepower does a 350 Cu in the 5.7 L V8 have?


The horsepower output of a stock 350 engine also varies depending on the specific model, but can range from 145 to 370 horsepower.



When did Chevy stop making the small block Chevy?


Finally superseded by the GM Generation III LS in 1997 and discontinued in 2003, the engine is still made by a General Motors subsidiary in Springfield, Missouri, as a crate engine for replacement and hot rodding purposes.



When did Chevy stop using the 283 engine?


1967
The 283 was used through the 1961 model year and became the 327 in 1962 for the corvette and remained the 283 base V8 in sedans through 1967.


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.