The Evolution of GM LS Engines: From LS1 to LS7 and Beyond

The GM LS engine family has become a legend in the performance world. Since debuting in the late 1990s, these alloy V8s have powered everything from Corvettes to Commodores — and built a reputation in Australia as one of the best performance platforms around. At Spool Imports, we supply forged pistons, billet crankshafts, conrods and complete rebuild kits to help Aussie enthusiasts get the most from their LS builds.

LS1 – The Beginning

Launched in 1997 in the US Corvette C5, the LS1 was the first all-aluminium small block V8 from GM. In Australia, Holden introduced the LS1 in the VT Series II Commodore in 1999. Displacing 5.7L, it featured cathedral-port cylinder heads and made between 220–250kW in local models.

Tuning potential: A strong starting point, LS1s respond well to camshaft upgrades, cylinder head work and bolt-on mods. Stock bottom ends handle around 350–400rwkW with the right tune. Beyond that, forged pistons and rods are highly recommended.

LS6 – The High-Rev Variant

The LS6 appeared in the US-spec Corvette Z06 and Cadillac CTS-V. It’s essentially a refined LS1 with better flowing heads, higher compression and improved breathing. While Holden never sold it locally, LS6 components (like the heads) became popular upgrades for LS1 builds.

Tuning potential: Perfect for naturally aspirated performance builds. Swapping LS6 heads onto an LS1 is still a popular Aussie combo.

LS2 – The 6.0L Upgrade

In 2005, GM released the LS2 — a 6.0L version with 10.9:1 compression and 297kW in HSVs. Holden offered it in the VZ Commodore and WL Statesman.

Tuning potential: The bigger cubes mean more torque and stronger mid-range. With mild cams and exhaust, LS2s easily make 300+rwkW. Internally, they’re robust but benefit from stronger rods and pistons for boost.

LS3 – Aussie Favourite

The LS3 arrived with the VE HSV range in 2008. At 6.2L and 317–325kW stock, it quickly became the go-to performance engine. With rectangular-port heads, larger valves and stronger internals, it’s a step above LS2.

Tuning potential: Cammed LS3s are legendary in Australia. Stock bottom ends support 450–500rwkW with boost when tuned properly. Ideal for supercharger or turbo setups with supporting fuel and oiling upgrades.

LS7 – Big Cube NA Hero

The LS7 is a 7.0L monster from the US-spec Corvette Z06. Hand-built with a dry sump, titanium rods and CNC-ported heads, it’s a high-revving naturally aspirated weapon. While never factory-fitted in Aussie Commodores, crate LS7s have powered plenty of conversions.

Tuning potential: Expensive but unmatched for big naturally aspirated builds. Over 600hp is achievable without boost, but longevity demands proper oiling systems and forged replacements when pushed hard.

LS9 & LSA – Supercharged Muscle

The LS9 (Corvette ZR1) and LSA (HSV GTS, GTSR) introduced factory supercharging to the LS family. The LSA arrived in Australia with the E3 HSVs, running a 1.9L Eaton blower and making 430kW in stock form.

Tuning potential: Huge. With pulley upgrades, cam changes and stronger bottom ends, LSAs can make 600–700rwkW on pump fuel. They’re one of the most popular boosted platforms in the Aussie scene.

L76, L77 and L98 – Aussie Specific Variants

Holden also introduced variations like the L76 (6.0L with AFM), L77 (E85-capable), and L98 (non-AFM). These were fitted across VE Commodore and WM Statesman models.

Tuning potential: AFM lifters are a weak spot in L76/L77 engines. Many builders delete AFM/DOD during cam upgrades. Once sorted, they perform much like LS2s with plenty of aftermarket support.

LS Tuning in Australia

From cammed LS1 Commodores cruising the Gold Coast to twin-turbo LS3s at Powercruise, the LS platform is the backbone of the Aussie performance scene. Key upgrades usually include:

• Forged rotating assemblies – pistons, rods and cranks from Spool Imports
• Camshaft and valvetrain upgrades – to unlock NA power
• Forced induction – superchargers or turbos for huge gains
• Fuel and ECU upgrades – to keep everything safe

Why LS Engines Are So Popular

LS engines are compact, light and make great power. Parts availability in Australia is excellent thanks to Holden’s local production, and the aftermarket is massive. Whether you’re chasing a reliable street build or a 1,000hp drag car, the LS can deliver.

Spool Imports – Your LS Engine Partner

At Spool Imports, we carry a full range of performance parts for LS builds, including:

• Forged pistons and conrods
• Billet and stroker crankshafts
• Complete rebuild kits with ACL bearings and ARP fasteners

If you’re planning an LS rebuild or performance upgrade, check out our full range of LS products on the Spool Imports website.

Final Thoughts

The LS family has cemented itself as Australia’s favourite V8. From the humble LS1 to the fire-breathing LSA, these engines offer tunability, strength and endless aftermarket support. With the right parts from Spool Imports, your LS build can go from mild to wild — and redefine what’s possible on the street or strip.