General Motors LS3 Engine Specs

The General Motors LS3 is a powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine with 6.2 liters displacement, representing the third generation of the legendary LS engine family. Produced from 2008 to 2017, it was installed in Chevrolet Corvette C6, Camaro SS, and some other high-performance GM vehicles. The LS3 is built according to the classic American scheme - aluminum cylinder block with 90-degree V-angle and aluminum cylinder heads. The engine has OHV configuration (valves in block) with one camshaft and pushrods, making it compact and light for its displacement. This design also ensures low center of gravity and excellent weight distribution. The LS3 feature is large cylinder volume (387 cubic cm each) and relatively low RPM, allowing enormous torque generation. Compression ratio is 10.7:1, an optimal compromise between power and ability to use regular gasoline. The engine features electronic fuel injection and distributorless ignition. In standard configuration, the LS3 develops 430-436 horsepower at 5900 RPM and 624 Nm of torque at 4600 RPM. These figures are sufficient for Corvette acceleration to 100 km/h in 4 seconds. Maximum RPM is limited to 6600, but the engine creates peak power much earlier. The LS3 is famous for its reliability and simple maintenance. The design without timing chains (gears are used instead) practically eliminates serious valve train failures. The engine is undemanding regarding fuel quality and can run on 92 octane gasoline, though 95 is recommended for maximum power. Fuel consumption is 12-18 liters per 100 km depending on driving style, with enormous tuning potential.