Chevrolet Performance is offering an off-the shelf solution for hot rodders and custom builders who want the awesome power of a C7 Corvette Z06 under the hood. At the heart of this 1970 Camaro is an LT4 crate engine, the same 6.2-liter supercharged V8 that powers the formidable Corvette Z06. The LT4 is rated at 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, which qualifies as GM’s most powerful production vehicle engine ever.
“Chevrolet Performance pioneered the concept of high-performance crate engines and the LT4 represents a new threshold in technologically advanced, production-based choices for builders,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “Whether it’s in a classic Camaro, like this resto-mod concept, or a vintage truck or street rod, the possibilities are almost endless – and that’s exactly how we continue to fuel the dreams of enthusiasts.”
Modern upgrades to this classic muscle car include an independent front suspension and four-link rear suspension with coilovers at all four corners, Brembo brake kit borrowed from the Z06, and T-56 Super Magnum six-speed manual transmission. The sixth-gen 2016 Camaro contributed the Hyper Blue Metallic color and white rally stripes. LED headlamps and taillamps hint at the modern equipment that was incorporated into the classic design.
Watch this video posted by Speed Academy that goes behind the scene at the GM engine plant in Tonawanda, NY and shows how the LT4 is built.
About the LT4 crate engine
The LT4 is based on the same Gen V small block architecture as the LT1 engine used in the Corvette Stingray and 2016 Camaro SS, with several unique features designed to support its higher output and the greater cylinder pressures created by forced induction. They include Rotacast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads that are stronger and handle heat better than conventional castings, lightweight titanium intake valves and stronger forged aluminum pistons.
Chevrolet Performance offers the LT4 with wet-sump (part number 19332702) or dry-sump (part number 19332702) oiling packages. Front-end accessory drive systems are offered for both applications, along with an air conditioning kit and a power-steering kit (wet sump only).
An engine controller –part number 19331517 – is available for manual transmission applications. A custom control system must be used for automatic applications.
Last year NASCAR champion, Jimmie Johnson, was instrumental designing a 1973 Corvette resto-mod. The C3 Corvette Stingray looks exceptionally clean on the outside, but the big surprise is under the hood.
Also, here is the video overview of the entire Chevrolet 2015 SEMA custom truck and car lineup!
