LS3

LS3 is a 6.2-liter V8 engine developed by General Motors as part of its Gen IV small-block family. Introduced for the 2008 model year, it replaced the LS2 and was fitted to high-performance GM models such as the Chevrolet Corvette (C6) and the Camaro SS. The engine is widely regarded for combining relatively light weight with strong power output, making it a popular choice in performance applications.

Design and specifications are characteristic of the Gen IV small-block layout. The LS3 is a pushrod V8 with two valves per cylinder, featuring an aluminum block and aluminum cylinder heads. It delivers about 430 horsepower and roughly 425 pound-feet of torque, with exact figures varying by market, exhaust configuration, and transmission. The compression ratio is typically around 10.7:1, and the engine uses sequential port fuel injection.

Production and applications: The LS3 was produced roughly from 2007/2008 through 2013, appearing in several GM performance models of that era. In addition to factory applications, the engine became a common platform for aftermarket tuning, engine swaps, and horsepower upgrades due to its robust architecture and widespread parts availability. Its popularity contributed to the broader adoption of GM’s Gen IV small-block engines in performance and enthusiast communities.

Legacy: The LS3 remains a prominent example of GM’s pushrod V8 design from the Gen IV era. It is frequently cited for its balance of power, durability, and adaptability, and it helped shape aftermarket culture around the LS family of engines.