Power output never even approached 200 hp for the rest of the engine’s lifespan. By then, the Buick GS350 had completely bottomed out in performance, making barely 145 hp in most models.

Part of the lower power output for 1972 was due the change from SAE gross to SAE net horsepower ratings, but the engine was still considerably slower even with that taken into account.īy the late-1970s, Buick eliminated the double-barrel version and only the quadrajet 350 V8 remained. Things only got worse, and in 1972 they were detuned even further, to 145 hp and 180 hp, respectively. The double-barrel went back to 230 hp, while the quadrajet dropped down to 260 hp. It also meant the detuning of both the double-barrel and quadrajet versions of the Buick 350, too. In 1971, increasing emissions restrictions meant the elimination of the SP variant. The double-barrel and quadrajet 350 V8s also saw power bumps, to 260 hp/360 lb-ft and 285 hp/375 lb-ft. The Buick 350-4 SP made 315 hp and 410 lb-ft, which was just 35 hp less than its big block 400 V8 counterpart – though it made 100 lb-ft less in torque. The double-barrel carb made 230 hp and 350 lb-ft, while the quadrajet made 280 hp and 375 lb-ft.įor only 1970, Buick released their highest output version of the GS350 V8, with the engine code SP.

When it first appeared in 1968 Buick released with two options: a standard version with a double-barrel carb, and a higher output version with a quadrajet carb. It was a slightly bored version, which gave it its larger displacement.

Buick 350 Engine Historyīuick introduced the 350 V8 (also known as GS350) in 1968 as the successor to the GS340 V8. Let’s start by taking a look at its late 1960s origins. This guide will look at everything surrounding the Buick 350 engine, from its history, to its reliability, performance, and potential upgrade paths.

So it was up to the 350 to hold down the fort, which it did admirably for years. Buick had to phase out their big block V8s by 1977, and the awe-inspiring fuel injected 3.8L turbo V6 wouldn’t appear until the early ‘80s. Yet, while its power output was halved by 1975, partly due to the change in SAE horsepower ratings, it was still the most powerful engine Buick had to offer at the time. Emissions restrictions led to its quick decline a few years later, where it languished until 1980. By 1970, it challenged Buick’s big block 400 and 455 V8s with its output of 315 hp and 410 lb-fit. Buick first put it on the market in their Gran Sport and Skylark models, where it was alternatively known as the “California” option. The small block 350 V8 played an important role for Buick during its 13 year production run from 1968-1980.

350 350 hp cam specs