When it comes to engine swaps, few options have revolutionized the automotive world quite like the LS engine family. With options ranging from super budget-friendly to extremely high-performance powerhouses, LS engines cater to virtually every automotive enthusiast’s need. Blue Prism Automotive provides quality-tested LS engines suitable for a variety of applications. In this comprehensive guide, we explore every LS variant from budget-friendly to high-performance, discussing power, potential modifications, cost, and suitability for your build.
Super Low Budget LS Engines ($300–$1,500)
4.8L LS Engines – Affordable Entry-Level Power
The 4.8-liter LS engines, specifically the LR4 (275 HP), LY2 (295 HP), and L20 (295 HP), are incredibly affordable. These were primarily used in entry-level trucks and vans, making them abundant and budget-friendly. Despite lower horsepower numbers, they're popular for turbocharged setups, frequently achieving over 500 HP with proper turbo applications. The L20 variant has a lower compression ratio, ideal for higher boost levels.
With basic modifications like camshafts, headers, and intake upgrades, power can easily increase to about 350 horsepower, making the 4.8-liter a solid choice for turbo enthusiasts or those needing a reliable, budget-friendly engine.
Low Budget LS Engines ($1,000–$2,500) 5.3L LS Engines – The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Swap
The 5.3-liter LS engines like the LM7 (295 HP), L59 (295 HP), LMF (320 HP), and L33 (310 HP aluminum block) are among the most popular LS engines available due to their excellent power-to-cost ratio and widespread availability.
Stock, these iron-block engines deliver around 295 horsepower, but bolt-on upgrades such as cams, intakes, and tunes can push power comfortably into the 350–375 horsepower range. Turbo setups frequently yield over 600 horsepower, making the 5.3-liter LS highly desirable for budget builds. The aluminum L33 offers an approximately 80-pound weight reduction compared to iron variants, beneficial for performance-oriented applications where weight savings improve acceleration, handling, and braking.
When sourcing these engines, it's essential to ensure completeness, including electronics, ECU, sensors, and accessories. Also, the taller truck intakes might not fit under all hoods, requiring modifications.
Mid-Range Budget LS Engines ($2,500–$4,500)
6.0L LS Engines – Increased Displacement, Greater Potential
For those with a moderate budget seeking a notable step up, the 6.0-liter LS engines such as the LQ4 (325 HP), LQ9 (345 HP), LY6 (364 HP), L76 (361 HP), and L96 (360 HP) offer impressive performance gains. These engines were common in higher-end trucks and SUVs, notably the Cadillac Escalade and Silverado SS. The LQ9's flat-top pistons result in increased compression, offering slightly higher performance than the LQ4.
These engines respond excellently to modifications, easily surpassing 400 horsepower with basic bolt-ons and reaching 700+ horsepower under forced induction setups. They're abundant and typically come with robust internals, making them suitable for higher-power applications.
Additional L96 engine options available: 🔹 2011–2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 6.0L L96 Engine for Sale 🔹 2014–2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 6.0L L96 Engine for Sale
High-Performance LS Engines ($4,500–$10,000)
LS1, LS2, LS3, and L99 – Premium Power and Lightweight Aluminum
For higher budgets, aluminum-block engines like the LS1 (345 HP), LS2 (400 HP), LS3 (430 HP), and L99 (400 HP automatic variant) provide refined performance. The LS1 introduced in the Corvette, Camaro, Firebird, and GTO delivers solid power, though it's pricier due to lower availability.
The LS2 and LS3 significantly upgraded power output through increased displacement, higher compression, and improved cylinder heads. The LS3, notably available in the Corvette and Camaro SS, provides an impressive jump of almost 100 horsepower over the LS1, making it ideal for enthusiasts prioritizing high power and drivability. Aluminum construction offers significant weight savings over iron-block counterparts, improving overall performance.
Supercharged LS Engines ($10,000+)
LSA and LS9 – Extreme Performance
At the pinnacle of LS performance sit the supercharged LSA (556 HP) and LS9 (638 HP) engines. The LSA, available in Cadillac CTS-V and Camaro ZL1 models, easily reaches 750+ horsepower with modifications, making it perfect for extreme performance builds or drag racing. The LS9, from the Corvette ZR1, represents the absolute highest factory LS power level, capable of achieving over 800 horsepower with minimal upgrades.
Additional LSA engine options available: 🔹 2009–2011 Cadillac CTS 6.2L LSA Engine for Sale
Budget and Price Comparison Chart
Budget Level | Engine Options | Horsepower (Stock) | Approximate Cost |
Super Low Budget | 4.8L (LR4, LY2, L20) | 275–295 HP | $300–$1,500 |
Low Budget | 5.3L (LM7, L59, LMF, L33) | 295–320 HP | $1,000–$2,500 |
Mid-Range Budget | 6.0L (LQ4, LQ9, LY6, L76, L96) | 325–364 HP | $2,500–$4,500 |
High-Performance | LS1, LS2, LS3, L99 | 345–430 HP | $4,500–$10,000 |
Supercharged | LSA, LS9 | 556–638 HP | $10,000+ |
Explore our wide selection today and find the LS engine that will transform your automotive dreams into reality!Check out our inventory - Used engines online
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