The second sub-500-mile run on the dyno returned 423 RWHP (429 RWPS), and this gets us to the first proper test of the engine at its full potential in bone-stock form. After letting the car roll to 500 miles on the dyno, the third pull’s results came in at 449 RWHP (455 RWPS) at 113 mph (182 kph) and 411 pound-feet (557 Nm) of torque. The answer, therefore, is yes; the LT2 is a little better after 500 miles!
20 ponies may not seem like much but don’t forget we’re talking about a bone-stock vehicle here with natural aspiration, the base version of the C8 Corvette. Given time, the Z06 will level up to a flat-plane crankshaft V8 known as the LT6 while the ZR1 is set to adopt a pair of snails to create the LT7. Both of these engines are expected to mirror the displacement of the LT5 in the Corvette Racing C8.R racing car, namely 5.5 liters. Better still, two hybrids are also rumored for production in the guise of the Grand Sport (LT2 hybrid) and Zora (LT7 hybrid).
Until these babies show up in dealer showrooms, don’t forget that the aftermarket has plenty of upgrades for the LT2 in the guise of turbos, superchargers, and prochargers in addition to new headers and free-breathing exhaust systems. Those who plan on taking the ‘Vette to 1,500 horsepower should take into consideration the rear-axle upgrade from Cicio Performance, priced at just under $2,000.
