What I know:

-LS1 has a more durable bottom end.
-LT1 has a more durable block.

-LS1 responds better to mods.
-LT1 mods are cheaper.

What I want to know:

From a financial standpoint, in the long run, which one is a better choice to build upon? For what amount of horsepower is one a better choice than the other? For example, which one is cheaper to get to 400hp? How about 500? And 600? Or a 1000? Which one is cheaper per HP in general?

Also, which one is more turbo-friendly?

I know there is a lot of LT1 vs LS1 threads but I couldn't find this specific info, so I had to start a new thread. I hope you don't mind.

 

if the cost of the motor is not considered then the ls1 wins hands down on the hp gains per buck. dont know on the turbo stuff.

 

With the LS1, you already start with a near 50 hp advantage. I also wouldn't say the LT1 mods are cheaper as well. I see exhausts and intakes priced very similarly for LT1's and LS1's.

 

Exhausts and intakes are pretty much just bolt ons. I'm talking about stroker kits, cams, heads, tuning, turbos, etc.

Also I don't see how there's a 50hp difference between 305hp and 285hp. I know LS1 is somewhat underrated, but come on. I've raced LS1s before and I been beaten, but I clearly wasn't 50hp down. Stock they're neck and neck till around 90mph.

Here is what I'm actually trying to figure out. I have an LT1 Camaro that I'd like to start working on, which will pretty much need time and money invested. I can start working on it, but I also have the choice of selling it and buying an LS1, or possibly even a Honda. I'm looking for what is the most logical and financially sound way to get the fastest street car I can make.

 

Sorry but the domestic enthusiast in me has to laugh at "Honduh" *LOLOLOLOLOLOL*

How much money do you have to blow? And what exactly are you looking for?

 

ok so if you have a lt1 then the cost of a ls would be money that could be spent on the lt1. with that in mind then i would say you are better off to build the lt. unless you find someone to trade straight across or with minimal additional cash.

 

i have had both and i must say i am way more pleased with the ls than the lt. never thought i would say that back when i had the lt1.

 

The LS1 might put 300 to the wheels, but it is surely not crank hp. The LS1's were rated at 325 and 330 crank power.

 

i thought ls1 is rated at 350hp. seems there is conflicting numbers cause im seeing 305 to 350hp. i think it depends on options and what car its in. vette ls1 is rated at 345. remember chevy factory hp numbers are usually low.

 

^Yeah, 350 crank hp and low 300's to the wheels. GM rated them at 325 for the Z28 and 330 for the SS (or 320 and 325 don't remeber). The later years (01-02) they started throwing LS6 intakes on them too, good for a few extra ponies unaccounted for. Bang for buck is the LS1. You can find a straight 98-99 Z28 for not much more than a nice LT1.