Will you gain value in your restomod by going to a ls2 or ls3 from an ls1?
 

Guys, I have a question. I currently have an ls1 with a 6 speed in my 69 camaro and I am curious would going ls2 or ls3 increase the value on my car or just my performance. I dont intend on selling just doing my homework and wanted to see what the outcome would be of the upgrade. Thanks guys, let me know what you think.

I'd think it will. Will it offset the cost of the upgrade? Probably not...

Todd, is it worth it? The power versus what it will cost, ls3's are still rather costly from what I have seen. I think I should be close to 400 hp now with a cam, long tubes and some of the other stuff I have on my motor. For the the other motor will cost and cost to upgrade I wonder is it worth it.

I think it will. An LS1 is pretty dated at this point in the LS world.

Upon resale time it could likely mean the difference between someone who makes an offer on your car or moves on to the next one with a newer LS. This also all depends on the rest of your car (quality, mods, etc).

Even sight unseen, I would think there are other things you could do to the car today that would increase resale value more than an LS1 to LS3 swap.

New generations of engines are coming out pretty frequently these days. You might just find yourself chasing an ever moving target.

^This


Every person is different and is willing to pay different amounts. I wanted a 5.3 over a 6.0 because its just a driver and fuel is expensive. It def wont hurt the value of your car!


If you do go that route let me know. I might take the ls1 off your hands.

I guess thats kinda my point, I was thinking that I could better uses the money elsewhere in my car. Not to mention my car is not a show car so I dont think its going to sell for top dollar if I were to sell it. Hell I saw a 69 on car chasers with an ls7 and a solid build go for far less than I would have taken. I think it depends on the buyer or the seller.



I will keep you posted, its a really good motor. 2000 ls1 with a cam, it had 85k on it and was taken apart to get what I now have. ( Taken down to the shortblock and checked ). I think if I get the right deal I will upgrade but if not I will stick with what I have.

IMO, the LS craze will fade eventually with the introduction of the next generation of GM engines.

With that said, I did purchase a LQ9 for my 67 build. My main reason was I'm familiar with the engine and feel comfortable working on it. Also, it was easy on the budget.

If I were shooting for a value add motor and had the cash, I'd have to go 572 BB with a carb. I personally think that will always be cool.

:thumbsup:

The coolness of a 572 BBC is going to depend heavily on the price of gas, unless it's a total trailer queen.

I think it would increase the overall value of the car, but not enough to cover the cost of the swap. While the LS1 motor is a little dated now, it's still a very capable motor as well as rock solid dependable. I think the LSx craze is till going strong and will continue to be a healthy market for years to come.