The output of the wasn't particularly high in terms of horsepower. For example, the stock (non-high-output, VIN "Y") in the 1983 Oldsmobile 98 was a mere , although in that year a high-output model (VIN "9") was available producing a nominal , at approximately torque. The final 1990 configuration was rated at at 3200 rpm and of torque at 2000 rpm. The combination of good low-RPM torque, the Quadrajet four-barrel carburetor, and the THM-200-4R three speed plus overdrive automatic transmission having a lockup torque converter allowed for fairly good performance, and fuel economy considered reasonable for the era, even in the larger and heavier model cars. The engine is also known for its reliability, smoothness and quietness.