Corvette ZR1-Powered Chevy Chevelle Laguna Leads Chevrolet's SEMA Assault
The list of Chevrolet Performance crate engines grows by three.
Chevrolet Performance will debut this highly modified 1973 Chevrolet Chevelle Laguna to show off a trio of new crate engines at the 2018 SEMA show. Leading the charge is the new supercharged 6.2-liter LT5 V-8 based on the unit found in the current Corvette ZR1. Rated at 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque, it makes its show-floor debut under the hood of the Chevelle Laguna. A bold choice, as, despite its prominence in 1970s NASCAR, the third-gen 1973–1977 Chevelle has traditionally lived in the shadow of the classic 1968–1972 Chevelle in terms of desirability by street rodders. Kudos to GM for the choice.
In addition to a new, larger supercharger, the engine is the first of GM's crate engines to utilize both direct and port fuel injection for optimal drivability. The Chevelle's body features period NASCAR-themed front and rear spoilers and a carbon-fiber hood. A modified suspension (on which Chevy hasn't given details yet) and 18-inch wheels underpin the project.
1967 C10 Gets the ZZ6 Crate Engine
Enthusiasts looking for traditional Chevy small-block looks and power without the hassle of carburetion will want to check out the new ZZ6 EFI crate engine. Offering the versatility of the ubiquitous 350 cubic-inch V-8, its throttle-body injection allows for the fitment of a traditional air cleaner for that classic look desired by many casual enthusiasts. But it's not just built for looks and convenience; Chevy claims output of up to 420 horsepower. You'll find it at SEMA installed in a 1967 C10 detailed with the usual checklist of custom touches: a lowered suspension, 20-inch wheels, smoothed and customized bumpers and tailgate, and a custom-trimmed interior.
1978 K10 Silverado Shows Off the L96 V-8
The third new crate engine to debut at SEMA is the fuel-injected 6.0-liter L96 V-8. Built on the architecture of the LS, it's a heavy-duty unit ideal for restomods. Fuel injected and electronically controlled, it's rated at 360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, mated to an electronically controlled four-speed overdrive automatic transmission. It offers a look at one of the many plug-and-play powertrain options offered by Chevrolet Performance. Look for it on the stand fitted to a 1978 Chevrolet K10 Silverado finished in a classic red-and-black color scheme over a fresh body-off restoration completed at General Motors' Milford proving ground.
These latest additions bring Chevrolet Performance's arsenal to nearly 50 different versions of small-block, big-block, LS, LSX, LT, Circle Track, and COPO crate engines. Offering more than just completed engines and transmissions, Chevrolet Performance also provides the extras needed to get a project out the door: accessory drive kits, fuel and ignition system components, and installation accessories. We'll update with photos and additional details as they become available in the runup to SEMA at the end of October.
