Hello thirdgen.

I want 400rwhp out of my 91 camaro. I would like to install an engine that will provide that number, however I don't mind installing the motor with potential then upgrading later to reach that goal. With that said I have a budget of 5-6k I am willing to spend on the drivetrain.


I was planning on doing a LQ9 6.0 with fbody accesories and shorty headers, custom Y pipe, Cutouts, and Fast intake. Later I would do heads/cam to put me over 400rwhp.

I also considered an LS1 pullout for the ease of already having fbody accesories and oil pan. I would install a fast intake and headers. Later down the road I could swap to a built 6.0.

I found a 408 TPI with Alum heads, comp cam and lifters, ported plenum, aftermarket runners, etc that has 425 horse and 550tq for $3,700. However I am concerned about it being a TPI. TPI is restrictive with 305s. But that is about as plug and play as you can get, which is always a plus. The money saved would go into brakes/suspension.

The car will be my daily driver for the next 3-5 years. So fuel economy is a concern.

What setup would you recommend? Not just what I listed, anything from 5.3, L98's, etc.

 

LS all the way. Don't limit yourself to the GEN III stuff either. Do some research on the GEN IV engines and keep an eye out for deals. LS3, Ly6, etc etc.

 

STOCK tpi is restrictive. A holley or weiand tpi setup with the correct injectors and a good tune will give great results. Or you could drop a carb on that 408 and not even worry about the tpi.

 

Thanks guys. And NagleMac , what about a stock tpi that has been ported with aftermarket runners? Wouldn't that still choke it up alot?

And FI is almost a must for me. Carbs can get a little finicky, plus I want the car to be more modern. I know LSX screams modern, but like I said earlier the TPI I mentioned is plug and play for the most part.

UnstableAviator , thanks for the input, and will do. I've found some LS3's but they get pricey. I just scrolled through your thread, great work!

Anymore thoughts?

 

That would work too. A stock setup will work, but its so restrictive that its pointless to use with anythijg but a stock or mild build. Aftermarket runners are a good way to go or just port the stock runner.

 

If your concerned about mileage, why not look into a basic 5.3 swap (down to stock manifolds) and then start piecing a turbo setup together. It would be the best of all worlds. Great power, keep your foot out of it great mileage, and the modern factor of fuel injected/LS. I had a basic swap (using truck accessories) down to roughly $2-$2.5K and that would leave you plenty of money left over to do a small turbo setup.