General Motors Co. says it will build its 100-millionth small-block engine today. The small-block V8 has been the backbone of the company’s powertrain operations ever since Chevrolet introduced it in 1955.
The small block has been used in GM vehicles around the world and today it powers global Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac vehicles, Vauxhall in the United Kingdom and Holden in Australia. Although it has high-performance roots and remains a staple in numerous types of racing, it has largely been a workhorse for the Chevrolet division, powering millions of family sedans, station wagons, pickup trucks and SUVs.
When most people say “small-block,” they are referring to V8 engines, but the total 100 million run includes the 4.3-liter V6 used in some Chevrolet and GMC full-size trucks and vans. The 4.3 is essentially a small-block V8 with two of its cylinders clipped off.
To mark the occasion today, however, Chevy picked the most exotic version of the production small block: the 638-horsepower supercharged LS9. The LS9 powers the Corvette ZR1, which has a top speed of 205 mph. It is the most powerful engine ever built by GM for a regular-production car.
GM says it will add the special engine it is building today to its historical collection.
Reply With Quote