alright guys, heres the deal
I know, as does everyone else, that the LS1 is a superior engine to the LT1. But everyone also knows that most LS1 cars will run you about $4,000 more then an LT1 car. That being said, would it really be worth it to buy an LS1 car if you were on a very limited budget. Because you could buy an LT1 car and throw a sick supercharger on it and have spent the same amount of money as someone that bought an LS1 car and the LT1 would absolutely destroy the LT1. So my question is, wouldn't it be more worth it to just stick with the LT1 if you were looking for a budget build?

 

My thought is that the LS1 is a more mature, efficient engine. There are many more products and specialty shops that are well versed in this engine. My thought would be to go with the LS1, they're easy to coerse more power from and give you more overhead than the LT1. It may cost a little more now, but down the road you'll thank yourself.

 

When I bought my '94 lt1 Camaro my plans were to upgrade to a 383 and make it fast. Then I started working on my thirdgen , installed a 496 after a carbureted 383 failed and that has kept me happy whooping on Lt1's and ls1's alike. I want to get back to working on my '94 though. Should have gone with an Ls1 instead(way more potential) but I will make due with what I've got.

 

Well for me the most important thing would be to get a car with the least amount of mileage and that is in the best shape possible for the amount of money you have to spend.This whole LT1 vs LS1 thing is really no way to buy a car if you have a limited budget.Both engines are great,and the LT1 can be made plenty fast.I say just take your time and get the best car that you can get for your money and worry about how fast you can make it later.

 

You won't be able to put a "sick supercharger" on a LT1 for $4k... You have to consider all the supporting mods that are necessary... Everything from Fuel pump, injectors, headers, catback, bigger throttle body, stronger timing chain, forged pistons, rods, crank... Labor... I'm fascinated by the forced induction concept, but after reading lots of posts in the FI forum, I'm convinced going that route will cost at least $10k and that doesn't count things like transmission and rear end...

I'd buy a LT1 if

1) I'd be happy with the performance esentially stockish...

2) I had the budget to make it go real fast...

Otherwise, I think it makes sense to spend the extra $$$ on a LS1...

 

When this next LT stroker bites the bullet, my 4th gen is getting an LS2/3.

 

I bought my LT1 because it was cheap and I could pay cash for it which resulted in not having to finance another car. I have already began rounding up parts for a heads/cam build and already have a nitrous setup installed. With those two things combined ( and a stronger bottom-end of course ), my LT1 motor will easily make more then enough power to meet my goals and expectations for the car.

 

Agreed, I'd be more hung up on the overall shape of the vehicle than whether it's LT1 or LS1. Both have loads of potential.

 

Ls1 aint s**t.... if your a real main and aren't affraind to work on or mode a real engine then the LT1 is for you. If your pansy and you want to join the bandwagon of magazine dreams and 1/4 times go right ahead and get yourself an Ls1. Seems like every LS1 ******* I run into with a Lid,catback, and headers.. thinks he has a 450hp monster.