The allure of raw power and legendary reliability draws many automotive enthusiasts to seek out cars that have LS engines. These powerplants, renowned for their robust construction and impressive performance capabilities, have found their way into a diverse range of vehicles, from sports cars to trucks and even some surprisingly unexpected applications. The LS engine family, produced by General Motors, has become a favorite among tuners and hot-rodders alike, thanks to its ease of modification and readily available aftermarket support. Finding the right cars that have LS engines can be a rewarding journey for anyone seeking a thrilling driving experience with a touch of American muscle.

The LS Engine: A Brief Overview

The LS engine is a series of Gen III and Gen IV small-block V8 engines used in General Motors vehicles. Introduced in 1997, the LS family quickly gained popularity for its advanced design, lightweight construction (thanks to aluminum blocks in many variants), and impressive power output. Key features include:

• Overhead valve (OHV) design for simplicity and robustness
• High-flowing cylinder heads for enhanced performance
• Sequential fuel injection for improved efficiency
• A wide range of displacements and power levels to suit different applications

Popular Cars Featuring LS Engines

Here are some of the most popular and desirable cars that were factory-equipped with LS engines:

Chevrolet Corvette (C5, C6, C7)

The Corvette is arguably the most iconic car to feature the LS engine. From the C5 generation onwards, the Corvette has consistently delivered exhilarating performance thanks to its potent LS powerplants.

Chevrolet Camaro (Fourth and Fifth Generation)

The Camaro, another legendary American muscle car, also benefited from the LS engine family. The fourth-generation (1998-2002) and fifth-generation (2010-2015) Camaros offered various LS engine options, providing impressive performance for their respective eras.

Pontiac GTO (2005-2006)

The 2005 and 2006 Pontiac GTO, while an Australian import (Holden Monaro), packed a serious punch with its LS1 and LS2 engine options. These cars are highly sought after for their blend of performance and understated styling.

Cadillac CTS-V

The Cadillac CTS-V took luxury and performance to a new level with its supercharged LS engine. The CTS-V offered a thrilling driving experience in a refined and comfortable package.

Beyond Factory Applications: LS Swaps

The popularity of the LS engine extends far beyond factory-equipped vehicles. The LS engine’s compact size, relatively light weight, and abundant power make it a popular choice for engine swaps in a wide variety of cars and trucks. From classic muscle cars to modern imports, the possibilities are endless.

The LS engine’s versatility and reliability have made it a favorite among enthusiasts. The ease of finding parts and the large aftermarket support contribute to its popularity. This leads to a variety of builds and applications.

Comparative Table: Popular LS Engine Variants

Ultimately, the selection of cars that have LS engines depends on personal preference and budget. Whether you’re seeking a classic muscle car or a modern performance machine, there’s an LS-powered vehicle out there that will satisfy your need for speed and reliability.