In August 1997, Car and Driver featured the impressive Lingenfelter LS1 Corvette, a powerhouse of performance. John Lingenfelter and his team at Lingenfelter Performance Engineering wasted no time in reworking the brand-new fifth-generation Corvette, showcasing their speed and expertise in the automotive world. Within just 10 weeks of the C5’s factory rollout, Lingenfelter had the modified Corvette tearing down the track, showcasing their ability to extract more power from already powerful vehicles.
The modifications made to the LS1 Corvette were extensive and aimed at increasing power and performance. The engine saw changes such as forged aluminum pistons, a Lunati forged steel crankshaft, and connecting rods from Oliver. These upgrades, along with modifications to the GM engine controls, allowed for a redline of 6500 rpm, providing a thrilling driving experience. The exhaust system was also enhanced with a stainless-steel system fabricated by Corsa Performance, contributing to the Corvette’s impressive 450 horsepower and 435 pound-feet of torque.
The driving experience of the Lingenfelter Corvette was exhilarating, with improved acceleration times and a noticeable increase in power. The LS1 engine offered a throaty rumble and a responsive performance that set it apart from the stock Corvette. The modifications made by Lingenfelter resulted in a 0.7-second improvement in the 0 to 60 mph time and a full second improvement in the quarter-mile time, bringing the Corvette closer to supercar territory.
However, the enhanced performance of the Lingenfelter Corvette came with some side effects. At its top speed of 190 mph, the body felt floaty, and the steering lost some of its composure compared to the stock Corvette. To address these issues, Lingenfelter equipped the Corvette with stiffer front and rear anti-roll bars and opted for Michelin Pilot SX tires to improve grip. While these enhancements improved performance on the track, they also added to the overall cost of the vehicle.
The price of the Lingenfelter modifications added up quickly, with the total cost reaching $64,740 on top of the factory price of $43,246. Despite the significant investment, the Lingenfelter LS1 Corvette offered a compelling value proposition, outperforming more expensive sports cars in speed contests. Lingenfelter’s future plans for the LS1 V-8 engine include additional upgrades to intake and exhaust manifolds, as well as a more affordable power package for enthusiasts looking to enhance their Corvette’s performance.
In conclusion, the Lingenfelter LS1 Corvette showcased the remarkable capabilities of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering in pushing the boundaries of performance and power. With a focus on enhancing the driving experience and delivering top-notch speed and acceleration, the Lingenfelter Corvette stood out as a true performance powerhouse in the automotive world.
