pros and cons
The ls1 will be more responsive to mods and have more to chose from. The have inherent issues with the number 7 cylinder rapping from time to time. They feature higher flowing heads, new composite intakes, and a lighter aluminum engine platform to work with. They have higher horsepower ratings, but are often out performed off the line by lt1s. Stock for stock they are a faster engine, and will move the car through the quarter quicker. Cost has come down due to newer revised versions of the engine and it's technology.
The lt1 is a venerable engine as well, and most times can't be beat for its cheap cost and strong iron block. Mod prices have drastically dropped due to the availability of the new tech ls1's. The most noted down side to this motor is it's utilization of optispark ignition. Mainly due to its damage suseptibility to water, and it's poor positioned location, I personally have never had an issue however.
Admitedly and in my opinion, swapping for an ls1 will be more costly due to the need for a new computer for an ls1, and several other wiring transfer issues that may rear as you proceed through the swap.
I promise you there will be a number of varying opinions on this topic. Good luck.
Although the LS1 typically has a little bit more power from factory, i'm pretty sure that $1,200 you saved will compensate.. and the lower miles will help also in the long-term
Although the LS1 typically has a little bit more power from factory, i'm pretty sure that $1,200 you saved will compensate.. and the lower miles will help also in the long-term
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Alot of people Ive talked to who had both ls1 and lt1 liked driving their lt1 better, they just felt faster, but then reality hits when a stock LS1 beats a full bolt on LT1 by a large margin. Honestly it depends on what your trying to do, all out performance or just a fun little ride. all out-LS1 dd cruiser id go with the LT1.
Thankfully Ive never had to make this decision I like them both!
but considering how cheap you can get that low of a mile ltx i would go with it and just do an le2 package and stay close to the price you would have paid for the ls1.


