Quote:
Originally Posted by racer_X
This is a very interesting build, I love the details, but not sure if I buy into the idea yet. I am just wondering how well would handle..... even if the LS engine is technically lighter (and not by much if I understand correctly) isn't the center of gravity much higher with the V8? And isn't the car still heavier overall with the additional weight of the cooling system and coolant? I would be nervous entering a corner with the weight that high (though I like the LS's accessories position, nice and low compared to the flat six).
Someone enlighten me: it seems like this conversion is for those who appreciate a straight and flat track, but has anyone run this set up on a road course?
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This is one of those apples to apples things.
I think an LS1 has a higher center of gravity than a flat 6. I think a turbocharged flat 6 with the intercooler and all that other stuff mounted way up high, has a higher center of gravity than an LS1. Since the LS1 is in the same power class as a turbo, the center of gravity advantage goes to the LS1.
Incidentally, the same goes for weight also. I think the LS1 and normally aspirated flat 6 are close in weight - Clemons reports a 25 lb difference which is certainly within the error range of a big rig scale. However, once you've added a gigantic intercooler, turbocharger and all the plumbing of a turbo motor, the LS1 provides a clear advantage.
Let's remember we're talking about 400hp cars, not 200hp cars.
And then, of course, there's the fact that a 400hp Porsche motor is on the ragged edge of tune and not really all that tractable, while a 400hp LS motor is basically what I have in my Suburban -more or less.
I drove Clemons car and while it's surprisingly fast, the most amazing thing was how civil it was if you didn't provoke it. Amazing.
Hal