The GM LS engine is great, just the absolute best. It’s hard to say with total certainty, but it’s probably one of the most used engines for swaps, or at least a very close second the original Chevy Small Block. This engine platform is magical, and seems like it couldn’t get any better …unless you could get it in a V12 formation, and thanks to an Australian-based company, now you can!
Boasting that you can “Take your build to the elite level,” V12LS.com has you covered if you’re ready to go all-out with your LS build. Basically, the build is two LS1 engine blocks combined into one. The 9.5L V12 engine made its worldwide debut during the 2016 SEMA show as a prototype in a 1967 Camaro, this version made 641 RWHP.
Now that the company has put the engine into production for consumer use, the one-piece block could possibly be used to make a 1,000 horsepower, naturally aspirated powertrain with the same bore and stroke as a GM LS1. Available as a cast or aluminum block, the engine packages start out at $21,300 with delivery included, and you’ll get the block, camshaft, crankshaft, and cylinder heads. From there, options get more complete, and more expensive. If you’re looking for a drop-in powertrain, you’ll be shelling out $46,200, you’ll just had to find your own accessories, headers, and water pump.
Installation actually seems pretty straightforward as even the engine mounts are the same as the LS1 engines you’ll find in original V8 form. The biggest trick about this engine would be figuring out how to put it in whatever car you choose. This V12 LS1 is nearly 9” longer than a factory LS1, and all that length falls at the front of the engine.
We would vote for the bare option since you can do a lot of things with 580 cubic inches, but we still have a lot of questions about sourcing parts. What would you do with one of these V12 LS1s?
Elizabeth is a hardcore horsepower enthusiast with unmatched intensity for making things faster and louder. She wakes up for power and performance and only sleeps to charge up for the next project that’s heading to the track. From autocross to drag racing, Elizabeth is there with you, so stay tuned for her unique perspective on horsepower news, builds, tech info, and installs — with her, it’ll never be boring!
