Viperbeam

on getting a ls1 or ls2 GTO. I currently have a CTS-V but, due to the differental problems people are getting i'm afraid of modding the car. So I decided to go with a goat. I'm going to be honest with you I want about 500rwhp maybe 600rwhp but I think I will be happy with 500rwhp. I was wondering what would be the safest and cheapest way to get there. Should I go with the ls1 or the ls2.

Thanks,
Gilbert

05_GTO

I would go with the LS2. Try to get one that was made later in the year since they mostly have all the bugs worked out of them. I haven't had any problems with mine... except for the flywheel bolts backing out (believe it or not).

Galen

iTrader: (3)

I would have to disagree with 05_GTO. To reach the 500 rwhp mark, the heads of the engine will have to be changed. The LS6 heads are really the major benefit to the LS2 over the LS1. Yea, you have a few extra cubic inches, but the LS1 can definitely perform. Now, bang for the buck, an 04 GTO can be had for about $5,000 less than an 05. For that $5,000, I feel he can come really close to his 500 rwhp goal. As a matter of fact, I imagine I am really close to this mark on the spray for much less than $5,000.

Either way, they are a great car. Just be aware that we also don't have the strongest of rear ends.

Galen

BlueSix

Personally if i wanted 500-600 rwhp i wouldn't worry about whether to get an LS1 or LS2 GTO. I'd get the cheapest one i could find and build an LS2 based 402 with some ETP 240 heads.

NVigR8

iTrader: (3)

Sucks you have to leave the CTS-V, are the diff problems really that bad? Those are really nice cars.

Viperbeam

But, would the rear end with stand 500rwhp?
What would be my options in order to beef up the rear end?
How much does a 2004 gto run for right now?

ss496

iTrader: (7)

i like my setup...it seems to work good. some people have the maggie as an "only mod", and make ~490 to the wheels on a stock maggie tune (not like its a bad tune). this is only on 5.5lbs of boost. i think with supporting mods 600 is within reach. BTW the GTO irs aint that strong either! Anything with 5-600 rwhp is going to have problems with stock drivetrain parts.

ss496

05_GTO

Well I say get a later built 2005 cuz they seem to have less problems. I know I don't have any problems with strut rub, the rear end, etc like the 2004's and early 2005's. This is what the person seems to want, no problems.

jdo6696

iTrader: (4)

when was yours built 05_GTO?

05_GTO

Built in May 05

TrakDay

iTrader: (7)

Well if you want 500+hp be ready for rear end problems with the GTO. I just broke my Differential for teh second time. 600rwhp/MT ET DRs/hooking hard will do that to a car I guess!

Get an LS1 for cheaper and use the saved money on the drivetrain upgrades...