The 1970 GMC Jimmy offered several engine options, with the most common being the 350 cubic inch V8; other available choices included the 307 cubic inch V8 and a 250 cubic inch inline-6.
GMC’s 1970 Jimmy was built on GM’s truck-oriented platform, and its engine lineup reflected the era’s mix of performance and practicality. Depending on trim level, market, and whether the vehicle was geared more toward on-road use or off-road capability, buyers could choose from multiple powerplants under the hood. This article outlines the main engines available for that model year and what those choices meant for driving characteristics.
Engine options offered in 1970
The following engines were among the options dealers could equip in a 1970 GMC Jimmy, depending on configuration and region:
- 350 cubic inch (5.7 L) small-block V8
- 307 cubic inch (5.0 L) V8
- 250 cubic inch (4.1 L) inline-6
Because different options were available in different markets and trims, not every Jimmy left the showroom with the same motor. The engines were typically paired with GM’s standard manual or automatic transmissions of the era, and were designed to balance torque for off-road work with everyday versatility on paved roads.
Summary
For the 1970 GMC Jimmy, the core engine lineup centered on three powerplants: the popular 350 V8, an optional 307 V8, and a 250 inline-6. The exact engine in a given vehicle depended on the order, trim, and market, but these were the primary choices that defined the model year’s performance.


