There is not one single thing on the LS motors that is similar to a regular SBC, besides haveing 8 cylinders. They have a block that rivals the tall deck Dart block with raised cam, wider rails, tall deck(9.24") etc. The LS1 will blow away any SBC in every dingle cataegory from power, reliability, weight, you name it.
Any motor will make the power you want in a built up stage (i.e. Forged pistons and rods.) The LS7 is the only motor that would make a reliable 800 hp with turbos in completely stock form. All others will need rods and pistons. A typical standard with some porting, new rods and pistons, and good valves can easily make 900-1000 hp on 93 octane with a good turbo setup. Ls1 will be much cheaper then a LS7, they are also much more available. If you are going turbo, just buy an LS1 for $2,500 and change the rods and pistons, you will easily make 800 hp on a mild tune while getting 20+ mpg!
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Twin Turbo LS1 '71 Chevelle
1000 hp 93 octane street car
6 speed
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