What year did Chevy introduce the 350 engine?
The Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch small-block V8 was introduced in the 1967 model year, marking a major milestone for GM’s engine lineup and a lasting pillar of Chevrolet performance. The 350 would go on to power a wide range of cars and trucks for decades.
The significance of the 350’s debut
In the mid-1960s, Chevrolet sought a versatile, robust powerplant that could fit a variety of platforms while delivering modern performance. The new 350 small-block was designed to be lighter and more adaptable than prior engines, providing greater displacement within Chevrolet’s compact engine family and laying the groundwork for decades of use across the lineup.
Key launch details
Before outlining the specifics, note that the 350 was introduced as a 5.7-liter (350 cubic inches) V8 and quickly became a staple across Chevrolet’s range. Its modular design made it suitable for both standard passenger cars and performance variants.
Here are the essential facts about the 350's introduction:
- Introduced in the 1967 model year as Chevrolet's 5.7 L (350 cu in) small-block V8.
- Was offered across a broad lineup, including the Chevelle, Camaro, Nova, and various trucks.
- Provided a durable, adaptable foundation that supported later high-performance variants and continued production for many years.
In summary, the 350’s 1967 debut established a flexible engine platform that became central to Chevrolet’s powertrain strategy for generations, influencing both performance and affordability.
Models and configurations at launch
From its inception, the 350 was deployed across multiple Chevrolet nameplates, with a variety of carburetor setups and output configurations to suit different buyers and regulatory eras. It quickly became the backbone of Chevrolet’s mid-size and performance-focused offerings.
Before listing specific launch models, here is a snapshot of where the 350 appeared first:
- Chevelle: A cornerstone mid-size model that widely offered the 350 V8 for performance and value.
- Camaro: The then-new pony car offered the 350 V8 as an accessible performance option.
- Nova: A compact model that shared the small-block architecture with other GM divisions, benefiting from the 350’s versatility.
In summary, the 350 arrived across a range of popular Chevrolet models in 1967, delivering more power and adaptability to buyers and helping define Chevrolet’s engine strategy for years to come.
Summary
The Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch small-block V8 was introduced for the 1967 model year and quickly became one of the most enduring and widely used engines in Chevrolet history. Its combination of displacement, reliability, and adaptability helped Chevrolet power a broad spectrum of vehicles—from everyday cars to performance models—across multiple decades.
