The CJ5 with the 304 cubic inch AMC V8 typically produced about 150 horsepower in factory SAE net ratings.
This rating reflects the standard testing methods and emissions equipment of the era. While some vintage brochures and catalogs listed higher gross horsepower figures, the commonly cited figure for real-world use is around 150 hp with roughly 275 lb-ft of torque. Actual power can vary with condition, tuning, exhaust, air intake, and altitude.
Engine specifications and context
The 304 V8 is part of AMC's small-block family and was a popular option in the CJ-5 during the mid-1970s. In the 1976 CJ5, it was typically rated at about 150 horsepower (SAE net) and around 275 pound-feet of torque. A 2-barrel carburetor was common on many CJ-5 configurations, with some variations arising from emissions controls and model year tweaks. The shift from gross to net horsepower ratings in that era generally reduced the published numbers compared with older literature.
Rating methods
Horsepower figures from the 1960s and early 1970s often used gross horsepower, which appears higher than later net ratings. By the mid- to late-1970s, SAE net horsepower became standard, accounting for accessories and emissions equipment. For the 304 V8 in the 1976 CJ5, this means roughly 150 hp as the official figure, rather than the higher gross numbers seen in some older brochures.
Real-world performance considerations
Even with about 150 hp, the CJ5’s performance depends on gearing, weight, tires, and drivetrain setup. The lightweight body and typical off-road gearing of the CJ-5 can make the engine feel punchier in off-road conditions than the raw horsepower number might suggest, while highway acceleration reflects the same constraints of era gearing and aerodynamics.
Notes for collectors and restorers
For a precise figure on a specific vehicle, consult the factory build sheet or original brochures. The 304’s horsepower rating is consistent across many CJ-5 models from that era, but minor variations can occur due to emissions, carburetor configuration, and engine condition. A chassis dynamometer run on a restored engine will show current power output, which may differ from factory ratings due to wear and modernization.
Summary
The 1976 Jeep CJ5 with the 304 V8 is generally cited as producing about 150 horsepower (SAE net) with approximately 275 lb-ft of torque. Ratings varied with testing methods and emissions controls, so older “gross” numbers may differ. For a precise number on a particular Jeep, check the build documentation or measure with a dynamometer; the historical figure remains a useful reference for enthusiasts and restorers.