How much horsepower does a 7.0 LS engine have?
The 7.0-liter LS7 V8 is factory-rated at 505 horsepower at 6,300 rpm, with about 470 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It powered the Corvette Z06 from 2006 through 2013.
What is the 7.0 LS engine?
The 7.0 LS, or LS7, is GM's high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 created for performance applications. Displacing 7.0 liters (427 cubic inches), it features a design focused on top-end power, with a redline near 7,000 rpm. The engine is best known for its role in the C6 Corvette Z06.
Below are the key factory horsepower-related specifications for the LS7. These figures represent crank horsepower as rated by GM; wheel horsepower is typically lower due to drivetrain losses.
- Horsepower: 505 hp @ 6,300 rpm
- Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
- Displacement: 7.0 L (427 cu in)
- Redline: ~7,000 rpm
Note: The numbers above reflect the official rating for the LS7 in the Corvette Z06. Real-world results can vary slightly based on measurement method, condition, and testing equipment.
Model-year context and availability
The LS7 served as the flagship small-block for GM's performance line during the C6 generation, being used exclusively in the Corvette Z06 from 2006 to 2013. Its 505-horsepower output, combined with a relatively lightweight chassis, established it as a benchmark for high-performance, naturally aspirated V8s of its era.
Measurement caveats
Horsepower figures are typically listed as crank horsepower. Wheel horsepower, which reflects power available at the wheels after drivetrain losses, is lower. Dyno results can vary based on test setup, altitude, temperature, and fuel quality.
Summary
The 7.0 LS engine, known as the LS7, delivers 505 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rating represents crank horsepower for the Corvette Z06, and while real-world numbers can vary, it remains the standard reference for this engine.
How much HP does a 7.0 LS have?
505 hp. @ 6300 rpm
Other Performance Features
| Performance Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Compression Ratio | 11 : 1 |
| Horsepower Rating | 505 hp. @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque Rating | 470-481 ft./lbs.@ 4800 rpm |
| Engine Weight | 454 lbs. (assembled with clutch, flywheel, balancer, and water pump) |
What LS is a 454?
A "454" refers to a displacement of 454 cubic inches, or 7.4 liters, of a large-block V8 engine, most famously the Chevrolet 454. There are two prominent versions: the classic muscle car engine from the 1970s (like the LS6) and the modern LSX 454 crate engine from GM Performance. Both are known for producing high horsepower and torque, but the modern version offers a smaller package with similar power, thanks to advancements in engineering.
Classic 454 LS6
- Context: A legendary big-block V8 engine found in high-performance muscle cars like the 1970 Chevelle SS 454.
- Performance: The LS6 version was rated at an impressive 450 horsepower, but was often considered underrated, notes Silodrome.
- Key features: It featured a solid lifter camshaft, aluminum intake manifold, and a Holley four-barrel carburetor.
- Production: The most powerful versions were produced for only two years, 1970 and 1971, before emissions regulations changed the market.
Modern LSX 454 Crate Engine
- Context: A modern, high-performance crate engine developed by GM Performance.
- Performance: Delivers significant horsepower (often 620-650 hp) and torque, comparable to the original big-block, but in a more compact size, according to Facebook posts and this Facebook post.
- Key features: It uses a modern LS-series small-block foundation but has a 454 cubic inch displacement with strong, forged internal components for extreme power and durability.
- Applications: Popular for builders of performance cars, drag racers, and hot rodders looking for a potent and reliable engine that fits into a smaller package.
Is a 7.0 LS a big block?
Being one of a handful of GM engines assembled by hand, the LS7 is part of GM's fourth-generation V8 Small Block engine family and is notorious for its consistent and smooth power delivery.
Which is better, LS3 or LS7?
The LS7 is better for raw, naturally aspirated power due to its larger displacement, while the LS3 is more popular for its lower cost, greater aftermarket support, and better suitability for forced induction like supercharging. The "better" engine depends on your goals: the LS7 offers more power out of the box and a racing pedigree, but the LS3 is a more accessible and often cheaper platform to build upon, notes HotCars and Reddit users.
| Feature | LS3 | LS7 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Plenty for street use, but lower from the factory. | Higher naturally aspirated power due to larger displacement. |
| Cost | Lower cost to acquire. | Higher cost, often as a premium option. |
| Aftermarket | Larger aftermarket and more affordable parts. | Smaller aftermarket, parts can be more expensive. |
| Forced Induction | Stronger bottom end and handles boost better. | Can be built for boost, but may require more reinforcement and have a higher cost to build. |
| Original Application | Wide range of vehicles, including Corvette and Camaro. | Primarily used in performance-focused vehicles like the C6 Z06 Corvette. |
| Reliability | More reliable overall, though prone to quick ring wear. | Had early valve train issues, but a properly rebuilt LS7 is very reliable. |
| Recommendation | Better for budget-conscious builds or supercharger builds. | Better for those seeking maximum factory naturally aspirated power or building a naturally aspirated race engine. |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_w-8labKbKYjsi-gPpOXm4QE_338';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
Summary of differences
- Power: The LS7's larger 7.0L displacement gives it a significant advantage in naturally aspirated horsepower compared to the 6.2L LS3.
- Cost: LS3 engines are generally cheaper to buy, and their parts are more readily available and affordable.
- Buildability: The LS3 has a stronger bottom end, making it a better choice for builds that plan to add a supercharger.
- Reliability: The LS7 had some documented issues with its valve guides, while the LS3 is generally more reliable, though it may be prone to quick ring wear.
- Intended Use: The LS3 is a more versatile engine for a wider range of applications, while the LS7 is more of a specialized, high-performance engine designed for racing.
