ls376/480 or ls7
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
ls376/480 or ls7
I am doing a build on a 1970 stingray. I am trying to decide whether to go with the ls7 or the ls 376/480. Is the ls7 worth such a big price difference? What are the main difference's? I haven't really been able to find any comparisons of the two.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,125
Likes: 8
From: Taft TN
ls 376 is the best bang for the buck.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,970
Likes: 45
From: Cameron Park CA
I have that car, well, a 69 which is very close: http://www.myruffhouse.com/1969_corvette.htm. I also have the LS7 engine in a car that weighs about the same as my 69 http://www.myruffhouse.com/2007_corvette_z06.htm, 3,200 pounds and change.
Honestly, I cannot imagine what my 69 would be like with the LS7 in it. It would be a real handful - I would not want to drive it with my foot in it. You'd be giving a lot away in chassis rigidity, handling, ABS brakes, and traction control with that combination, IMO. You'd sure have some bragging rights though.
Honestly, I cannot imagine what my 69 would be like with the LS7 in it. It would be a real handful - I would not want to drive it with my foot in it. You'd be giving a lot away in chassis rigidity, handling, ABS brakes, and traction control with that combination, IMO. You'd sure have some bragging rights though.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 11,096
Likes: 990
From: Sierra Foothills CA
I have that car, well, a 69 which is very close: http://www.myruffhouse.com/1969_corvette.htm. I also have the LS7 engine in a car that weighs about the same as my 69 http://www.myruffhouse.com/2007_corvette_z06.htm, 3,200 pounds and change.
Honestly, I cannot imagine what my 69 would be like with the LS7 in it. It would be a real handful - I would not want to drive it with my foot in it. You'd be giving a lot away in chassis rigidity, handling, ABS brakes, and traction control with that combination, IMO. You'd sure have some bragging rights though.
Honestly, I cannot imagine what my 69 would be like with the LS7 in it. It would be a real handful - I would not want to drive it with my foot in it. You'd be giving a lot away in chassis rigidity, handling, ABS brakes, and traction control with that combination, IMO. You'd sure have some bragging rights though.
First of all I agree with what you said. I have a 69 with a modded 427. Nothing crazy but probably close to 500 HP and it will definitely hold your attention. It's not as settled as the Z06 is for the reasons you stated.
You and I have a bit in common actually. My 69 was originally Riverside Gold. I also have a C6 Z06. And I have a Camaro that I've had since 1970. That's a nice history you have with your first Vette.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 7,032
Likes: 2
From: Newburgh NY
I guess it depends on your wallett and your desire for speed and bling.
There is something about an LS7 in a C3. 500+hp and lightweight. But by the time you get done with the cost of the motor, sump system, fuel system, Computer and Harness, Gauge conversion, PUlley System, Rad/Fans, and other pieces to make it work. You are in pretty deep.
An LS376 is about 470hp?, considerably less but other then the sump system requires the same effort/cost pretty must to get it in.
You also have to consider your existing drivetrain, suspension, and brakes but that will also depend on how you plan to drive it.
In my case I bought a 15k mile LS6 short block for $1000 and dropped by own Stage 2 heads on it, 228/234, 588/592-114 Cam in it and a Maggie (Maggy is more for bling then go as I don't really beat on it too much). Cost of the engine without the Maggy was way less than a crate motor and left more money for bling.
So it depends on what you are looking for and what you want to accomplish.
There is something about an LS7 in a C3. 500+hp and lightweight. But by the time you get done with the cost of the motor, sump system, fuel system, Computer and Harness, Gauge conversion, PUlley System, Rad/Fans, and other pieces to make it work. You are in pretty deep.
An LS376 is about 470hp?, considerably less but other then the sump system requires the same effort/cost pretty must to get it in.
You also have to consider your existing drivetrain, suspension, and brakes but that will also depend on how you plan to drive it.
In my case I bought a 15k mile LS6 short block for $1000 and dropped by own Stage 2 heads on it, 228/234, 588/592-114 Cam in it and a Maggie (Maggy is more for bling then go as I don't really beat on it too much). Cost of the engine without the Maggy was way less than a crate motor and left more money for bling.
So it depends on what you are looking for and what you want to accomplish.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
O.k. thanks for all the info guys. I am actually having a chassis built with all new suspension, so I am not really worried about that. So after reading all this I think I'm leaning towards the ls7. Thanks again for the info. I will post pics as i get into the project more.
