LS2 vs. LS3

[mdes0]

Hey Guys, I have an opportunity to purchase a salvage GTO with an LS2 which has LS3 heads installed and an LS3 intake. It is for much less money than an LS3 take out so I am wondering if there are any major differences other than the .2 CID, between the short block of an LS2 and an LS3?
I'm thinking if I go this route I could run this until I blow it up and\or raise more money for an LS3.

Thanks, Matt

[srh3trinity]

I don't think you will see a big difference in power. if the cost is dramatically different I would go with the LS 2. I upgraded to an LS 3 but it was only because I had an iron block engine and wanted to upgrade to an aluminum block.

[John@Texas-Speed]

There isn't a huge difference there. You will see a lower compression ratio because of bore size on the LS2 compared to the LS3, but all in all very little difference.

[XLexusTech]

John. I bet you forgot more about LS engines then I will know in a life time, but I read the LS3 was a better breathing engine with more potential then the LS2? IS that just internet Hype ?

[rocketrod]

John. I bet you forgot more about LS engines then I will know in a life time, but I read the LS3 was a better breathing engine with more potential then the LS2? IS that just internet Hype ?That has to do with the cylinder heads not the shortblock and why you see a lot of people putting an LS3 topend on an LS2.

[mdes0]

thanks guys

[John@Texas-Speed]

That is correct! One thing to keep in mind is that the LS3 top end will kill some low end due to the compression and port velocity loss. Those heads breath more because of a pretty large intake valve and intake runner but lose low end for the same reason.