LS1 vs LS6 intakes: Engineering specs differences?
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2018
Posts: 1,113
Likes: 144
From: Miami
LS1 vs LS6 intakes: Engineering specs differences?
Hi folks,
I'm sure this has been talked about before. What are the actual specs differences between the LS1 and LS6 intake manifold that makes the LS6 intake flow better? They look nearly identical to the untrained eye. Runner length? Runner volume? Overall Plenum volume? Port area? I'm really curious. Thanks.
I'm sure this has been talked about before. What are the actual specs differences between the LS1 and LS6 intake manifold that makes the LS6 intake flow better? They look nearly identical to the untrained eye. Runner length? Runner volume? Overall Plenum volume? Port area? I'm really curious. Thanks.
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 3,774
Likes: 940
From: Orlando Florida
You need a copy of "How to Build High Performance LS1/LS7 V-8s" by WIll Handzel. In addition to being a great overall reference, Mr. Handzel has a well written background on the development of the LS1 and LS6, including considerable data on how the LS6 intake improved on the basics developed for the LS1. My copy is not near to hand at the moment for quotes, but trust me everyone wants to read this book, even if they don't know it yet.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 2,805
Likes: 359
From: Northville, MI
In 2001 the Corvette intake manifold was changed on all the models. The configuration for the base and Z06 is the same other than some plumbing, but they flow the same. For the base engine, the hp went up to 350 and the torque increased to 360 (auto) or about 370 (manuel) ft-lbs and the torque under peak was increased in the 1500-4000 rpm range. Hence slightly better low rpm acceleration.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,847
Likes: 1,145
From: Sleepy Hollow- NJ
This should help....
In 2001 the Corvette intake manifold was changed on all the models. The configuration for the base and Z06 is the same other than some plumbing, but they flow the same. For the base engine, the hp went up to 350 and the torque increased to 360 (auto) or about 370 (manuel) ft-lbs and the torque under peak was increased in the 1500-4000 rpm range. Hence slightly better low rpm acceleration.
hhttps://www.mrk-motorsports.com/20-popular-ls1-intake-manifolds-dyno-tested/
Another good book to check out "How to Rebuild GM LS- Series Engines" by Chris Werner. The motor rebuild being referenced and photographed at LRB Performance is my LS1.
Last edited by Johnny Hardcore; Jan 12, 2019 at 09:40 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 3,774
Likes: 940
From: Orlando Florida
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,847
Likes: 1,145
From: Sleepy Hollow- NJ
What really surprised me is how competive/ high performing the stock LS6 intake actually is in comparison to the original FAST intake. From a price comparison/ cost per HP is a much better return with the LS6.
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Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 788
Likes: 105
From: Olathe Kansas
YES.. Find a 2001 or newer intake from any corvette or even F body LS motor.. It will be the new 2001+ design.
Do a search here and you can find the actual GM part numbers that you'll want. Really can't beat the LS new design in a street car.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2018
Posts: 1,113
Likes: 144
From: Miami
The below link provides a performance comparison between stock LS1 intake vs LS6 vs all other leading brands. The main variance between the design of the LS1...it is curved on the bottom. The LS6 is flat providing maximixed airflow. By eliminating the curve in the LS1 it ultimately lead to much more breathability in what looks to be exactly the same from the top.
hhttps://www.mrk-motorsports.com/20-popular-ls1-intake-manifolds-dyno-tested/
Another good book to check out "How to Rebuild GM LS- Series Engines" by Chris Werner. The motor rebuild being referenced and photographed at LRB Performance is my LS1.
hhttps://www.mrk-motorsports.com/20-popular-ls1-intake-manifolds-dyno-tested/
Another good book to check out "How to Rebuild GM LS- Series Engines" by Chris Werner. The motor rebuild being referenced and photographed at LRB Performance is my LS1.