L-48 vs L-82 torque
Heel & Toe
Joined: Apr 2006
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A larger engine usually has more torque than a smaller one. The 350 in these cars was small (considering the time period). Larger engines during this period had low HP ratings, but good torque figures. Example 455 Pontiac rated 200 HP, but 330 plus torque numbers. To increase HP the 350 engine was tuned to a higher rpm which resulted in a loss of torque in the lower levels. The lower performance engine could have more torque. This is a generalization, there were terrible things being done to cars by the gov. during this period. I'm sure someone will jump in here and give you a better explanation.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 1999
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From: NM
I don't know what year you are referencing but when the L82 was introduced in 73, its torque was 285 compared to the L48's 270. But the l82 rating was at 4000 rpm while the l48 was at 2800.
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Alot of the Corvette lower rated horsepower cars made more torque at lower RPM's. This was also true of the mid year cars and the 300 horse 327 vs. the 350 horse 327. The higher horse cars could feel sluggish until they get into their torque curve at higher RPM's.
Pro
Joined: Apr 2007
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From: Grand Rapids Michigan
The 79 L48 also has a higher peak torque than the L82.
The L82 has higher horsepower, a flatter torque curve and a higher redline, making it an overall better performer throughout the rev range.
Peak torque or HP numbers only tell some of the story. you need to see how fast the peaks are reached and how long the peaks last before dropping to get a real sense of how an engine is going to perform.
The L82 has higher horsepower, a flatter torque curve and a higher redline, making it an overall better performer throughout the rev range.
Peak torque or HP numbers only tell some of the story. you need to see how fast the peaks are reached and how long the peaks last before dropping to get a real sense of how an engine is going to perform.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
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From: Crossville TN
The L-48 engines were rated from 3800-4400 rpm (depending on the year); the L-82's were rated at 5200 rpm. It's not surprising that the HP numbers are higher on the L-82's...given that rpm difference. Basically, GM rated the L-82 at a speed that would maximize HP....but that doesn't tell the whole story.
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