Engine Weight vs Power
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Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 797
Likes: 0
Engine Weight vs Power
Hey all, another post I had got me to thinking about this. I am wanting to go with a lighter car buildup for my next project (under 2700 for a midyear convertible). Initially, I was thinking of trying to go with the lightest pieces possible, including the engine and components. I was considering an LS1, but then my mind wondered to more options. The Ram Jet 502 makes great power, but is 300 pounds heavier than the LS1 (or more!) I have also been looking at a from-scratch buildup, and aluminum is much more expensive than iron! Would the weight savings make that much difference? The car will be mainly a cruiser/weekend warrior, but it will see occational trips to the strip. I am just apprehensive about doing another late-model engine in an older car (I am finally getting all the bugs worked out of the LT1 in my '78). I guess I could go with a crate LS1/6, but again $$$ for the 500 or so horses I am looking for. Maybe someone could give me some pointers here as to what to look for and what to avoid. Thanks in advance.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 3,909
Likes: 26
From: Clymer PA
Re: Engine Weight vs Power (Last Ride)
Your power to weight ratio is definetly something to take into consideration when building a car. How much it will cost also needs to be considered. In general it is said that:
Every 100lbs you take off a car, it's worth .10 second in the 1/4 mile. Every .10 of a second in the 1/4 mile is worth approximately 1 car length on whomever you are racing against.
A light car with a powerful engine sure does make a wicked combination....but WILL also leave you with a light wallet. :cheers:
Every 100lbs you take off a car, it's worth .10 second in the 1/4 mile. Every .10 of a second in the 1/4 mile is worth approximately 1 car length on whomever you are racing against.
A light car with a powerful engine sure does make a wicked combination....but WILL also leave you with a light wallet. :cheers:
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,112
Likes: 2
From: Peoria IL
Re: Engine Weight vs Power (bence13_33)
A good head/cam kit on an LS motor can give you 500hp, just check the C5 performance section. And since the car will be light you can afford to go bigger on the heads and cam.
