Corvette Z06 LT6 V8 Among 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems
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The C8 Corvette Z06 isn’t short on impressive specs and equipment, but the star of the show has to be what’s mounted just behind the cabin. Take a peek under that rear hatch, and you’ll find the naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 LT6 gasoline engine, a high-revving, high-performance pulse-raiser doling out 670 horsepower. Now, Wards Auto has recognized the Corvette Z06 and LT6 V8 with a spot on the list of the 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems for 2023.
Wards editors evaluated 32 different vehicles in determining award winners this year, including 13 internal-combustion vehicles, 10 all-electric vehicles, and nine hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles included five plug-in models and four non-plug-in models. Among the non-hybrid internal combustion engines, five were four-cylinders, four were inline six-cylinders, three were V8s, and one was a three-cylinder. Notably, all of the non-hybrid internal combustion engines were turbocharged, with the exception of two of the V8s. All of the powertrains which Wards evaluated were either all-new, or significantly improved for 2023.
Wards editors evaluated these powerplants on horsepower and torque figures, as well as NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) management, observed efficiency, and new technology, as well as overall value.
In addition to honoring the LT6 V8 in the C8 Corvette Z06, Wards also recognized the 5.0L V8 equipped by the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
The naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 LT6 produces a maximum of 670 horsepower at 8,400 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 6,300 rpm, directing output through the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission co-developed with Tremec. Featuring dual overhead cams and a flat-plane crankshaft, redline is set at 8,600 rpm. As GM Authority has covered previously, the LT6 emits a decidedly exotic exhaust note, blessing the mid-engine Corvette Z06 with a true-to-form supercar attitude. Further highlights include an 8-quart dry-sump oiling system, all-aluminum construction, 12.5:1 compression ratio, direct fuel injection, titanium intake valves, and sodium-filled exhaust valves.
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NVH = Noise Vibration Harmonics
That makes more sense. I was wondering what the hell harness meant. My only thought was how it puts the power to the pavement. 🤷🏻♂️ Isn’t harmonics covered under vibration though?
It’s noise,vibration and harshness
Everyone knows GM is great at building engines…designing and building the rest of a car is what trips them up.
I would like to see if my carvette is ready the red one I order
Give us the list!
Makes sense why it made the cut. HP and harmonics are definitely in its favor.
Fantastic engine! Hope this wins, followed next by the Ford 5.0L.
It needs more torque. 460 is not enough.
Not that it needs more torque, but better distribution. Below 3000 rpm the original 5.3 from 1999 has more torque 😬
Course the real reason for this engine is that many race classes have outlawed bigger displacement engines. I would love to have seen an LT 474. Would have idle level torque and better economy
In 2003, the 6.0 Powerstroke made this list of best engines.
Just sayin’.