If you’ve ever searched for a powerful, affordable, and reliable V8, chances are you’ve come across the LS engine family. Built by General Motors, GM LS engines are legendary in the world of performance builds, custom swaps, and crate upgrades.
But with so many versions available — from the 5.3 LS crate engine to the high-output 6.0 LS engine — it can be confusing to choose the right one. Below is a simplified breakdown to help you compare specs, applications, and benefits.
| Engine Name | Displacement | HP/Torque (Approx) | Gen | Best Used For | Notes |
| LS1 Engine | 5.7L | 350–400 HP | III | Corvette, Camaro, Custom Swaps | Lightweight aluminum block |
| LS2 Engine | 6.0L | 400 HP / 400 lb-ft | IV | CTS-V, GTO, Muscle Car Restorations | A top choice for swaps |
| LS3 Engine | 6.2L | 430 HP | IV | Camaro SS, Corvette, Swap Builds | Common in modern performance |
| LS6 Engine | 5.7L | 405 HP | III | Z06 Corvette, Racing Builds | High-performance LS variant |
| LS7 Engine | 7.0L | 505 HP | IV | Track Cars, Z06, Drag Racing | Hand-built racing engine |
| LS9 Engine | 6.2L SC | 638 HP | IV | Corvette ZR1, High-HP Builds | Factory supercharged |
| LQ4 / LQ9 | 6.0L | 300–345 HP | III | Budget Swaps, Trucks | Iron block, great torque |
| LM7 / L59 / L33 | 5.3L | 270–310 HP | III | Budget Performance Builds | Common, easy to find |
| L76 / L77 | 6.0L | 360–390 HP | IV | G8 GT, Caprice PPV, Sedan Swaps | Modern car-truck hybrid engine |
What Is an LS Engine?
An LS engine is a series of small-block V8s developed by General Motors starting in the late 1990s. Unlike traditional big blocks, these engines are lightweight, modular, and highly tunable — making them a favorite for engine swaps and crate projects.
Why Swap LS Engines Into Your Build?
Swapping an LS engines into your vehicle is one of the best ways to boost power and reliability without spending too much. Here’s why so many builders go for a swap LS engines setup:
Compact and Easy to Fit
LS-based engines are small in size but powerful. They fit easily in many cars, trucks, and even older vehicles.
Great Power for the Price
Even a basic 5.3 LS crate engine can give you over 300 horsepower. Higher-end models like the 6.0 LS engine or 6.2 LS Engine offer even more — without costing too much.
Easy to Find
Chevy LS engines are widely available. You can buy them used, rebuilt, or as a brand-new GM crate engine.
Huge Parts Support
Tons of aftermarket parts are available — wiring kits, mounts, performance parts — everything you need for your swap.
Reliable for Daily Use or Racing
GM LS engines are strong and long-lasting. Many run over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance and basic care.
Best LS Engine for Your Project
5.3 LS Engine (LM7, L59, L33)
- Best for: Budget swaps, daily drivers, light builds
- Why: Affordable, easy to find, reliable power (270–320 HP)
6.0 LS Engine (LQ4, LQ9)
- Best for: Trucks, towing, performance street builds
- Why: Strong iron block, great for boost, 300–345 HP
LS3 Engine
- Best for: Muscle cars, high-performance builds
- Why: Aluminum block, 430+ HP, easy upgrades
LS7 Engine
- Best for: Track cars, pro builds
- Why: 505 HP out of the box, lightweight, race-ready
LSA/LS9 (Supercharged)
- Best for: High-horsepower street/strip
- Why: Factory-supercharged, 550–638 HP, premium price
Conculsion
Whether you’re building a street car, race machine, or off-road rig, there’s an LS engine that fits your needs and budget. From the affordable 5.3 LS engine to the high-performance LS7 or supercharged LSA, every option offers great power, reliability, and swap potential.
Thanks to strong aftermarket support and wide availability, the Chevy LS engine remains the top choice for performance builds. So, if you’re ready to upgrade, a swap LS engine is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Need help choosing the right one? Browse our full range of GM Engines today!