Racing is an ever evolving sport, especially these days as many companies try to balance performance with fuel economy. New rules for the American Le Mans Series include changes to the GT2 class limit the displacement of the engine to 5.5 liters. This means last year’s 6.0 liter LS7-based engine was too big, and had to be downsized. But the 5.5 liter engine is supposed to be closely linked to production models. Just how close?
Corvette Racing put out this chart that shows the many similarities between the ZR-1’s LS9 engine and the new 5.5 liter V8.
Picture: Richard Prince
Besides the large difference in displacement (6.2 liters versus 5.5 liters) the two engines and cars have quite a bit in common. While the LS9 engine cranks out 638 horsepower, the 5.5 liter engine puts out a more mild 485 horsepower, though it lacks the LS9’s supercharger. Both engines have titanium inlet valves and aluminum cylinder heads.
Another interesting thing to note is the rear suspension differences. While the ZR-1 makes due with a transverse-mounted rear leaf spring, the GT2 car gets coil-over multi-adjustable shocks. The GT2 car can also run on E85 (as it does in ALMS) and E10 (as it will in the 24 Hours of Le Mans). This 5.5 liter engine is supposed to be very close to an actual production motor, could this engine transfer directly into the next generation of Corvettes? Could this be the new more affordable engine?
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