Starting with the ’08 Corvette, the world was first introduced to GM’s latest small-block V-8 creation—he 6.2L LS3. A continuation of the industry leading V-8 engines from GM, the LS3 kicks out 430 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. of torque. (In the Corvette, those numbers go to 436 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque with the optional dual mode exhaust system.)

The LS series of engines has broken new ground for efficiency and performance from a pushrod platform engine. The LS3 continues the engineering breakthroughs with revised cylinder heads featuring rectangle ports borrowed from the L92. The heads feature 63cc combustion chambers, 2.16" hollow-stem intake valves (reminiscent of the LS6), and 1.59" exhaust valves. The camshaft features an aggressive .551" of lift on the intake side with less overlap (than the LS2) for even greater airflow and power. Rocker arms with a 1.7:1 ratio sit on top of the heads. In the bottom end, the aluminum 6-bolts/main block features 4.06" bores and 3.62" stroke. A nodular iron crankshaft, powdered-metal rods, and aluminum pistons (10.7:1 compression ratio) round out a rev-happy short block. Red line for the LS3 comes at 6600 rpm, and you will get there very quickly.

With a high-tech GM foundation, aluminum block, and high flowing rectangular-port heads, the LS3 is the new standard in the small-block world. The LS3 helps power the new Corvette to a top speed of 190 mph. What will it power you to?