Chevrolet Gen IV LS7

Rumor has it that the ’02 Z06 Corvette will get a 20-hp boost for its LS6, making it just crest 400 brake. We also heard that the ’05 Z06 ‘Vette could have a 6.4-liter LS7. Do you believe it?

Well, GM engineers have been mostly tight lipped about the LS7, in some cases even denying its existence. But the LS6 rumor became a reality when Sam Winegarden, chief engineer of GM Powertrain's small-block team, confirmed the Gen III would get a shot in the arm for the 2002 run of Z06s, but only hinted to how they did it. The confirmation of one rumor means we’re on the right track for the truth. Hot Rod’s Jeff Koch is, as we write this, interrogating all the insiders to get the whole story. Expect to see it in the October issue of Hot Rod. When we learn more, we will relay the information to you.

We’d hate to spread rumors about what may never be, but the idea of a meat-grinder big-inch LS small-block invited giddy speculation. We broke off a few pieces for you to chew on.

Speculation: The LS6 has 405 hp, so what of the LS7? We think 450 or even 500 is possible.
Speculation:The Gen IV LS7 is going to be a "cammer" like the LT5.
Fact: The '02 LS6 cranks the torque over 400 lb-ft
Fact: The '02 will be another "quickest production Corvette ever." Will we ever get sick of hearing that?
Fact: The '02 Corvette will have revised exhaust
Speculation: GM has discovered how to eliminate the need for catalytic converters

Have you any rumors? Check out the Rumor Board