I am building a street rod truck from the ground up and want a late model drivetrain. I would like a LS1 from a Vette but they are out of my price range and the 5.3 can be had compete with harness ecm and acc for $500 to $800
that seems like a deal to me. also a 6.0 may be an option but they are a little morte than a 5.3, I also want the auto trans that was mated with the engine so the harness will be intact. I will do a cam swap and exhaust work to try to get around 400 rwp if possible. this would be fun in a 3200 pound truck. give me your ideas 5.3 or 6.0 and what trans is best? what years are best? take it easy on me I have been a Ford tech for 31 years and only have experience with old chevy small blocks and a Lt1 in my 93 vette.

 

Either way its a good motor. The 6.0L will be capable of more power, but the 5.3L is cheaper and I hear it is a bunch more fuel efficient for some reason.

As far as transes if you want OD you will probably be looking at the 4l60e or 4l80e. The 6.0L`s came with an 80e which is a bunch stronger. It is also heavier and eats more power though. In reality you will be happy whichever engine you choose.

 

The 5.3 is a great motor, but even with heads, cam and exhaust 400RWHP is unlikely. Of course, if you're planning forced induction, the 5.3 is a great motor for its lower compression ratio. The 6.0 will easily see 400 RWHP with upgrades. It all depends what you want.