- One of the most famous engines in the world is celebrating a major milestone as Chevrolet’s small block V8 is turning 70.
- The engine was launched in a handful of 1955 models including the Corvette and Task Force pickup.
- GM has already confirmed plans for a sixth-generation small block V8 and it promises to combine power with efficiency.
The death of the V8 engine has been often talked about, but it’s alive and well at Chevrolet. That’s certainly clear as the company recently introduced the Corvette ZR1, which features a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 with 1,064 hp (793 kW / 1,079 PS) and 828 lb-ft (1,121 Nm) of torque.
While that’s the latest and greatest, their small block V8 is celebrating a monumental milestone. The engine debuted 70 years ago in 1954 with a displacement of 4.3-liters.
More: GM Confirms New Small Block V8 For Full-Size Pickups And SUVs
A long lasting legacy was almost destined from the beginning as the engine was installed in the 1955 Corvette, where it produced 195 hp (145 kW / 198 PS). This was a huge boon for performance fans as it offered nearly 25% more horsepower than the 3.9-liter inline-six.
The engine was also offered as part of the 1955 Task Force lineup, which included the Cameo Carrier that was billed as the “gentleman’s pickup.” Needless to say, this association continues to this day as small block V8s are prominently featured across the Silverado lineup.
While charting the changes would take an eternity, as there have been five generations and countless improvements, the latest lineup includes 5.3-, 6.2-, and 6.6-liter V8s. They can be found in everything from pickups to performance cars including the Corvette and Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing.
While rivals such as Stellantis have largely said goodbye to the V8, General Motors has already announced plans for a sixth-generation small-block engine that will be built at plants in Michigan, Ohio, and New York as part of an $854 million investment. The automaker has been tight-lipped about details, but promised the mill will showcase “power and efficiency.”
