But im very interested in parting with my Z and getting a LS1 Z28 or SS. I know a little bit about these engines but not alot. As far as the years go I know they have small differences such as EGR, LS6 intakes and and small cam differences, But does it really matter what year? I would like to stay away from the 98s becuase they were the first year that the LS1 was introduced in a f body, but i still will go for one for one if its a good deal. I know the hype is pretty high for LS1s but are they really THAT fast compared to a LT1. I would hate to test drive one and be dissapointed
how are they as far as reliabilty goes vs a LT1? I know the opti is gone, but can they last into the high mileage territory, and can they take a beating and still run strong? I really want a 6 speed, how do the t56 in the LS1 cars hold up?
How do you think a LS! would do in a 1/4 compared to my current car (mods in sig). I think the 6 speeds could edge it out in the top end but im not sure.
And my last question-Are they more dependable then a LT1 and can they take abuse like the LT1s can?
Sorry for the long post, but i really want to do my research on this one.
THanks alot in advance, i really appreciate it.

 

I just did sold my LT1 to get a LS1 a few weeks ago. Every day i have a big smile on my face!

 

well i just got my 99 SS about a month ago and ive never drove a LT1. but im VERY pleased with mine, ive heard nothing but GOOD out of the LS1, its a great motor and from what ive heard it can take more abuse than the LT1, if i were you and had the choice and money i would definatly get the LS1!

 

well the ls1 has a 6 bolt block...compared to the 2 bolt that the LT1 has.

there are hundreds of 400rwhp, and quite a few 450rwhp h/c LS1s out there that are still running stock bottom ends..so i would say they are quite durable.

and honestly...a stock ls1 in good running condition...should run even with your car. you may get edged out in a 100-150mph race...but in the 1/4 mile it should be a drivers race.

 

Your LT1 had long-tubes and a CAI, and basically that's it. You're still nowhere near (ok, I shouldn't say that) but you're still a ways off an LS1 power wise. Your car on a good day should be a mid-high 13-second car I would say (I've seen a couple low 14, high 13 second LT1's, relatively stock).

What you may notice is what "feels" like less low end, but then when you hit the higher RPM's, you'll **** your pants!!! The LS1 pulls like crazy up top, where the LT1 starts to fall on its nose around ~5000 RPM. I've driven a '96 T/A A4, and a '97 Z28 M6. They both go really well, no doubt, but my LS1 has run a 13.0 @ 107 with the mods in my sig (still with the A4) compared to the Z28 that ran 13.7 @ 100 mph, and the T/A that ran only 14.6 @ 96 mph. You do the math. Even on the highway, I pulled away from the '97 Z28 like he was standing still, from a ~70 mph roll!!

 

are they that fast? Im still bone stock and a fairly good driver.
With 94 degree weather and 40% humidity and a DA of 2900 I pulled a 13.3@106.94. Car has 81K miles.

Ya.. I like my LS1. I havent had to see the shop since I bought it. I cant complain. Only oil changes and gas. Ohh and 3 air filters so far.. Not too shabby.

My best time was a 13.1@108 with a 2.0 60' but that was a year or two ago.. But I bet it can still do it..

Still on the stock clutch too.

And I autoX the car as well. Its not babied.

I used to have a 1995 Z28. It only had a few bolt ons but was running 13.4@105. It doesnt compare to this car at all.

Now.. for the low end issue.. 2001-2002 didnt have the issue like the 98-00 guys seem to describe. I have no issue with launching or low end power.

dyno: 320rwhp/337rwtq your results may vary.

 

If you can afford it get an 01 or 02. You get EGR delete and an LS6 intake for free. They also have better stock manifolds.
Now an older one for cheap and you can upgrade these things.

Buddy bought a 98 Formy M6 ran 13.6 at 106 with 120k+ miles on it. He put a lid, loudmouth, and 4.10 gears in and ran a 13.003 at 109.9 on street tires. And yes I was there when he ran it. Funny thing was that his pal was there with a mild H/C LT1 and they were both trying to bust a 12. The LT1 ran 12.99 at 106 or 7 on the same pass that Pat ran his 13.003.
So there's a comparo for you H/C, longtubes, boltons, and tuned LT1 against an old beat up LS1

 

just test drive one like all of us did and you'll be sold. you wont need any of our oppinions after you look in the mirror and realize how much you're smiling

 

Sounds good, but how are they to work on? It seems like the engine compartment is pretty crammed (not saying that any 4th generations isnt) and it looks almost impossible to work on the the engine past the cowl. Also, i know they get a bad rap for how they sound but really how bad is it?
I'm also looking for a good deal so if anyone know of one PLEASE let me know.
thanks again.

 

i like the ones ive heard

 

They're easier to work on than an LT1 (you can actually SEE "some" of the spark plugs).

Sound? Do you mean the exhaust, or the wonderful "clackity, clackity, clack???" that the pistons/lifters/rockers/fuel injectors/whatever in heck it is makes?? Don't worry, you'll get used to both the weaker exhaust note (I'll admit, LT1's sound more like a genuine SBC than LS1's do) and the engine clatter, when you're passing all your LT1 buddies on the track and anywhere else. And once you start doing crazy **** like heads/cam and LT headers, then she'll sound sweet!! Go for a little less LSA on the cam, and give it a little more lope.

 

i hate you!

 

http://ls1tech.com/forums/showthread.php?t=213148

 

Thanks for link, so are these engines pretty loud? I know some have a problem with piston slap but it really isnt a problem just a noise. I f i go to test drive one and i hear any ticks/clicksi really shouldnt be concerned right (unless its obvious a bearing is spun or a lifter is collapsed).
Thanks again

 

Hey, just speaking the truth.