LS3 Engines for Sale: Ultimate Guide to Buying the Iconic GM Performance Engine

When it comes to powerful, reliable, and performance-oriented V8 engines, the LS3 engine from General Motors stands out as one of the most sought-after choices among car builders, tuners, and racing fans. Whether you’re looking to do an engine swap, upgrade a classic muscle car, or build a high-performance track car, LS3 engines for sale remain in high demand due to their combination of power, durability, and aftermarket support.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about buying LS3 engines, including the different types available (new, used, rebuilt, and crate LS3 engines), pricing, specs, pros and cons, and where to find the best deals.

What is an LS3 Engine?

The LS3 engine is part of GM’s Gen IV small-block V8 engine family. Originally introduced in the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette, it quickly gained popularity due to its 6.2L displacement, 430+ horsepower, and the ability to be easily modified for higher performance.

LS3 Engine Specs:

Displacement: 6.2 liters (6162 cc)
Horsepower: 430 hp @ 5900 rpm (stock)
Torque: 424 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (stock)
Block Material: Cast aluminum
Heads: Aluminum, rectangular port
Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
Fuel System: Sequential Fuel Injection
Redline: 6600 RPM

The LS3 is widely known for its balance between affordability and raw performance, making it a favorite for hot rods, restomods, off-road rigs, and even marine builds.

Types of LS3 Engines for Sale

When shopping for an LS3 engine, you’ll find different categories tailored to your budget and project needs:

1. New LS3 Crate Engines

A crate engine is a brand-new engine sold directly by GM or authorized dealers. These engines are untouched, fully assembled, and ready to drop in.

Price Range: $7,000 – $12,000+
Where to Buy: Chevrolet Performance, Summit Racing, JEGS, Pace Performance
Best For: Professional builds, engine swaps, and customers who want a warranty

Crate LS3s often come with accessories like intake manifolds, fuel injectors, and coils, though long-blocks may not include everything.

2. Used LS3 Engines

Used LS3 engines are sourced from vehicles like Corvettes, Camaros, and G8s that have been totaled, wrecked, or retired.

Price Range: $4,000 – $8,000 depending on mileage and condition
Where to Buy: eBay, salvage yards, Facebook Marketplace, LKQ, car part auctions
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers and those willing to refresh components

Tip: Always get compression/leakdown tests and VIN verification when buying used.

3. Rebuilt or Remanufactured LS3 Engines

These are LS3 engines that have been torn down, inspected, cleaned, and rebuilt to OEM or better specs.

Price Range: $6,000 – $10,000
Where to Buy: ATK Engines, Blueprint Engines, Jasper Engines, Custom builders
Best For: Projects needing reliability without full crate engine cost

Rebuilt LS3s can include performance upgrades like forged pistons, cam upgrades, and head porting.

Where to Find LS3 Engines for Sale

1. Online Performance Retailers

Chevrolet Performance – The official source for GM Performance Parts
Summit Racing & JEGS – Reliable vendors with warranty options and financing
Pace Performance – Offers turn-key packages and drop-in solutions

2. Online Marketplaces

eBay Motors – Thousands of listings from private sellers and dealers
Facebook Marketplace – Great for local deals and negotiating
Craigslist – Look for LS3 engines in your region (always inspect in person)

3. Salvage Yards and Auto Recyclers

LKQ Online – Nationwide inventory with warranty options
Copart & IAA Auctions – Bid on entire LS3 donor vehicles
Local junkyards – Potential goldmines for LS swaps

4. Specialty Engine Builders

Some companies specialize in performance-tuned LS3 engines:

Texas Speed & Performance
Lingenfelter Performance
Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center
Blueprint Engines

How Much Does an LS3 Engine Cost?

Here’s a breakdown of average LS3 engine prices depending on type:

Engine Type	Price Range	Includes
New Crate Engine	$7,000 – $12,000	Full engine, sometimes accessories
Used Engine	$4,000 – $8,000	Engine only, variable condition
Rebuilt/Remanufactured	$6,000 – $10,000	Engine with updated internals
Turn-Key Package	$12,000 – $18,000	Engine, ECU, harness, accessories

Factors that influence price:

Mileage (used engines)
Included components
Seller reputation
Warranty coverage
Location & shipping

LS3 Engine Applications

LS3 engines are popular in a wide range of vehicles and swaps:

Stock Vehicles:

2008–2013 Chevrolet Corvette C6
2010–2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS
2008–2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
2009–2017 Holden Commodore variants

Popular LS3 Swap Vehicles:

1967–1972 Chevy C10 Trucks
1967–1969 Camaro
Mazda Miata (LS3 swap kits available)
Jeep Wranglers
Nissan 240SX / 350Z
BMW E30 / E36

Because the LS3 engine is compact, lightweight, and extremely tunable, it’s one of the most swap-friendly V8s on the market.

LS3 vs Other LS Engines

Here’s how the LS3 stacks up against other LS platforms:

Engine	Displacement	HP (stock)	Strengths
LS1	5.7L	350	Lightweight, affordable
LS2	6.0L	400	Mid-range performance
LS3	6.2L	430	Great balance of cost and power
LS6	5.7L	405	Higher-revving variant
LS7	7.0L	505	High HP, track-ready (expensive)
LSA	6.2L Supercharged	556	Forced induction, great for drag

For most builders, the LS3 hits the sweet spot of affordability, performance, and upgrade potential.

Pros and Cons of Buying an LS3 Engine

✅ Pros:

Excellent performance right out of the box
Huge aftermarket support (parts, tuning, accessories)
Reliable and durable — can handle over 600hp with bolt-ons
Proven in many OEM vehicles
Ideal for swaps — compact and lightweight

❌ Cons:

Used engines may have unknown history
New crate engines are pricey
Tuning may be required for non-OEM installs
Accessories and harnesses add to total cost

Tips for Buying an LS3 Engine

Check the casting number to verify it’s a genuine LS3 (e.g., 823 heads).
Inspect for damage or leaks if buying used.
Ask for a dyno sheet or video of engine running if rebuilt.
Verify mileage and condition if sourced from a salvage yard.
Buy from reputable sellers with reviews and warranty options.
Consider a complete swap kit if you’re doing a complex build.

LS3 Performance Upgrades

If you’re buying an LS3 engine, here are some common performance upgrades:

Camshaft upgrade – Adds 30–80hp depending on grind
Long-tube headers – Improves airflow and sound
Cold air intake – Increases throttle response
ECU tuning – Maximizes gains from bolt-ons
High-flow injectors and fuel system – Supports more power
Forced induction (turbo or supercharger) – LS3 can handle it!

With the right modifications, LS3s can easily push 500–650hp on pump gas without internal changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What cars came with the LS3 engine?

A: The LS3 came in the 2008+ Corvette, 2010+ Camaro SS, and Pontiac G8 GXP. It also powered some Australian Holdens and HSV models.

Q2: How much horsepower can the LS3 handle?

A: With a stock bottom end, the LS3 can safely handle 550–600 horsepower. With forged internals, it can exceed 750+ hp.

Q3: Is the LS3 a good swap engine?

A: Yes, it’s one of the most popular swap engines due to its compact design, power, and massive support community.

Q4: What’s better — LS3 or LS7?

A: The LS7 makes more power but is much more expensive. LS3 offers better value and upgrade flexibility.

Q5: Can I run an LS3 on pump gas?

A: Yes, the LS3 is designed to run on premium 91–93 octane pump fuel.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy an LS3 Engine?

If you’re looking for legendary GM V8 power with modern tech, high reliability, and an endless stream of aftermarket upgrades, then the LS3 engine is a top-tier choice. Whether you go for a new crate engine, used LS3, or a rebuilt long-block, there’s an option to suit nearly every project and budget.

With LS3 engines for sale across dozens of platforms and sellers, now is a great time to bring some serious horsepower to your build.

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