Times are achangin'..... Everyone that has ever seen a Firebird (a real one that is) has noticed the small block GM powerhouse under the hood. In recent years this performance maker has been known as the LT1. This is no longer true. As of the '98(1/2) model year GM is replacing the LT1 with a new breed of beast. Many have mixed emotions over this change, so I decided that the differences must be shown for all to see. That way each and every Firebird enthusiast can choose for his or her self whether the change is good or bad.

One of the major and most noticeable changes is in the heads. The new generation cylinder heads have a new intake port design. The ports, both intake and exhaust, have been spread apart to increase flow and volume, thus increasing power output. The downside to this and a most controversial one is the fact that these new heads won't fit on an old style engine. Which brings me to my next point, the block.

The remodeled block is a 327ci. Engine (if you look at the stats it says 346ci., but if you sit down with the bore and stroke the actual calculations equal 327ci.) cast out of solid aluminum and sleeved. This engine is not to be confused with the '60's and '70's 327. The bore and stroke have been changed as has the firing order, to accommodate the sequential port fuel injection. These differences are the most noticeable and significant of the LS1 series. These differences combined increase the power to weight ratio of the Firebird to astronomical proportions. If you thought this 'bird could fly before, just hold on we're goin' supersonic.

- By SuperEgg ©1998