The 2018 SEMA Show is just around the corner, and U.S. automakers are slowly introducing new upgrades and accessories. On top of a few customized vehicles, Chevrolet also prepared three new crate engines. The cool thing about this is that they will be displayed in a trio of vintage, restomod-style vehicles.
Three New Engines
All three mills are obviously V-8s, but they're significantly different when it comes to displacement and internals. The first engine on offer is a supercharged, 6.2-liter LT5. It that sounds familiar it's because it's the exact same mill found in the Corvette ZR1. It cranks out 755 horsepower and it will be displayed in a 1973 Chevelle Laguna.
Next up is a smaller 5.7-liter V-8 dubbed ZZ6 EFI. Chevy dropped this unit in a 1967 C/10 pickup truck. Also fitted in a truck, but this time around a 1978 Silverado, is the 6.0-liter V-8 L96. These new powerplants join a portofolio that includes nearly 50 crate engines. There's something for everyone, from Small and Big Block units to LS, LSX, Circle Track, and COPO mills.
But let's talk a bit about the cars on display.
1973 Chevelle Laguna / LT5 6.2L Supercharged
It was also a bit sportier than the rest thanks to its body-colored urethane fascias and more lavish interior.
Naturally, the show car has a modern, restomod vibe to it. Inspired by racing and the car's stint in NASCAR back in the day, it features the carbon-fiber hood of the Corvette ZR1, NASCAR-inspired spoilers, and 18-inch wheels. It also rides on a sports suspension. The massive V-8 cranks out 755 horsepower and 715 pound-feet of torque.
1967 C/10 / ZZ6 EFI
Based on the second-generation C/K truck produced from 1966 to 1972, this C/10 features modern hot-rod touches like a lowered suspension, 20-inch wheels, customized bumpers and tailgate, and a bespoke interior.
The 5.7-liter V-8 under the hood features electronically controlled fuel injection, but still has the classic style and installation versatility of Chevy's 350 cubic-inch Small Block engine. A solution for both hot rods and restomod projects, it allows a traditional air cleaner to be installed on the engine.
1978 K10 Silverado / L96
Also part of the C/K series, this truck comes from the third generation, produced from 1972 until 1987. But unlike the other two vehicles, it maintains its stock, factory look. This is actually a proper restoration powered by modern technology rather than a restomod fitted with modern features inside and out.
That's significantly more than the Big Block engines from the late 1970s, but in a lighter and more compact package. The mill mates to a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
Further reading
Read our full review on the 2016 Chevrolet Chevelle Slammer.
Chevrolet Performance Announces ZZ6 Crate Engine