LS2 05 vs 06&07
Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
LS2 05 vs 06&07
Considering purchasing an LS2 car. Goal is to be high 10's, with heads, cam and usual bolt ons + either nitrous or supercharger. I see that the 05 has the weaker differential and an oddball computer, but I'm interested in it because I'm somewhat familiar with the 4L60/65 series transmission. Looks like the 6L80 will have to be tuned to survive and I don't know anyone with that expertise. Is it better to avoid the 6L80 and deal with the weaker axle? Better to go with a base or Z51. Any input is appreciated.
Racer
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 275
Likes: 56
From: Idaho
I have a 2007 w/ LS2 engine, love it, but if I was looking for horsepower I'd start w/ the 2008 LS3 engine.
My 2007 has the 6 speed auto trans.
C6 Corvette's are more road car as opposed to drag suspension.
My 2007 has the 6 speed auto trans.
C6 Corvette's are more road car as opposed to drag suspension.
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Considering purchasing an LS2 car. Goal is to be high 10's, with heads, cam and usual bolt ons + either nitrous or supercharger. I see that the 05 has the weaker differential and an oddball computer, but I'm interested in it because I'm somewhat familiar with the 4L60/65 series transmission. Looks like the 6L80 will have to be tuned to survive and I don't know anyone with that expertise. Is it better to avoid the 6L80 and deal with the weaker axle? Better to go with a base or Z51. Any input is appreciated.
Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
If I start with a good low mileage 6L80 and install a converter (3400-3600 stall) and trans cooler, properly set up can I reasonably expect it to hold up to 450+ hp at the rear wheels? Should I expect a competent transmission shop to be able to tune the 6L80 correctly or will I need to locate an engine tuner? Thanks.
Supporting Vendor
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 3,527
Likes: 885
2024 C6 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (track prepared)
2019 C6 of Year Winner (track prepared)
If I start with a good low mileage 6L80 and install a converter (3400-3600 stall) and trans cooler, properly set up can I reasonably expect it to hold up to 450+ hp at the rear wheels? Should I expect a competent transmission shop to be able to tune the 6L80 correctly or will I need to locate an engine tuner? Thanks.
If you find somebody with HP Tuners I have a good tune I can send you.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,497
Likes: 261
From: Miami Florida
I’ll do the 2008 ls3 no need for a superchager to go meet 10 na with a 3400 stall hangs the tires off the line with 3800 Yank pas. Base has lighter brake calipers so straight line advantage
z51 big brakes for auto cross & time attack road race.
z51 big brakes for auto cross & time attack road race.
Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
If I came across the right car I could go for an LS3 I just wasn't sure if I'd have to dump a ton of money into a 6L80 transmission right away, also the lower price of the LS2 car leaves me with more money for parts. Want to start with a bone stock lower mileage car. Thanks.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 1,161
Likes: 84
From: Ohio
I have the 05. I love the car, but if I was interested in the 1/4 mi, I'd choose the 06-07 with paddle shifters. If the 05 is the best deal, changing the rear diff to 06-up isn't that expensive or difficult.
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Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
I was leaning toward a 4L65 with a 3.73 rear gear but it seems although much more complex, the 6L80 with a lower numeric gear will work as well. No rush, just want a nice clean car to start with. Thanks.