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Today we say goodbye to one of the greatest V8 engines ever built, the Chevrolet LS7. This monstrous V8 debuted in the C6 Corvette Z06 where it quickly became a fan favorite. The LS7 also found its way into the excellent Camaro Z/28 before ending up as a crate engine under Chevrolet’s performance parts program. After years of service, Chevrolet stopped ordering this legendary crate engine leaving 7.0 liters of space in our hearts.
When the LS7 debuted in the C6 Z06 it sent shockwaves through the automotive world. This 7.0-liter V8 cranks up to 7,000rpm and produces 505 horsepower (376 Kilowatts) while shouting the perfect V8 symphony. Of course there are more powerful V8s, but few have more character than the LS7.
While the LS7 retains the displacement and sound of classic American V8s, it’s anything but old-fashioned. The LS7 features a forged crankshaft, titanium connecting rods and unique hypereutectic aluminum pistons. The classic 2 valve per cylinder pushrod design keeps the LS7 at its best. Legend has it that Chevy tested the LS7 reliably at 8,000rpm but was unable to use this red line in production due to the constraints of the hydraulic lifters used by the camshafts. Many aftermarket companies have figured out how to reliably upgrade the LS7’s red line which gives these rumors weight.
In addition to losing the LS7, Chevy also discontinued the LS427/570. It is an upgraded version of the LS7 which uses an upgraded camshaft to produce 570 horsepower (425 Kilowatts). The LS427/570 also uses a wet sump lubrication system for easy engine changes for cars with clearances.
We’ll miss the beauty of naturally aspirated LS7 engines but luckily Chevy sold a lot of them, meaning we can enjoy them for years to come. You just need to find a used one.
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