I've noticed looking at a lot of posts in the dyno forums that on back to back runs, cars seem to make better power on the second and third runs. Do they actually make better power when closer to 185-195 degrees? If so, what's the deal with the popularity of 165 degree thermostats? Just a margin of safety against knock?

 

I have read in some of the LS1 modifying books that these engines actuallly run best at about 190 degrees. I think some of the popularity of the 160 stat is some guys in the hot climates overheat. Not sure, don't really have that problem here.