Skip to Content

GM's Cross-Fire V8: The “Cease‑Fire” Engine

Explore the shortcomings of GM’s early‑80s Cross‑Fire V8, from weak power and poor fuel economy to limited aftermarket support, and see how it was replaced by TPI engines.
26 January 2026 by
TechStora Editorial Board

Overview

The Cross‑Fire V8 debuted in the 1982 Corvette as GM’s first fuel‑injected engine since 1965, but it quickly became infamous for its lackluster performance and the unflattering nickname “Cease‑Fire.”

Key Issues

  • Power: The 5.7‑liter version produced only 205 hp, while the 5.0‑liter variant delivered a modest 165 hp, leaving drivers disappointed.
  • Fuel Economy: Despite electronic fuel injection (EFI), the engine achieved just 5 highway mpg due to an inefficient intake design.
  • Performance Gap: A 1982 Corvette lagged behind a 1962 model, taking 8.2 seconds to reach 60 mph versus 6.2 seconds for the older car.
  • Aftermarket Support: Early owners found virtually no performance parts, and port‑matching was not feasible.
  • Replacement: In 1985 GM switched to tuned port injection (port injection), boosting output to 230 hp and improving drivability.

Stay tuned and subscribe for more classic car insights!