Would the Northstar V8 be more suitable than LS1?

[bossman]

The Northstar is undoubtably America's more technologically advanced engine. I have heard that some companies will sell twin turboed versions of the engines with over 1000 hp and weighing less than 450 lbs. So it would not only get more power but using the technology it has it would get better gas milage, have a better torque curve(not including turbos anyway), and be more efficient altogether. Has anyone used it yet?

[GTRCLIVE]

Yes they have but they are in the States, Look on the Members section of the Club sight. It's in a Sports or Spyder, check the Car and Builds section. But I would say The LS1/6 is a better engine for performace.

[jschwartz]

I struggled with that decision as I was considering Northstar power. The Northstar is about 75lbs heavier than LS1/ls6, even more if you add turbos. In the end I settled on a 525hp LS6 with some C5R parts. Maybe I'll do a Northstar powered Can AM next. Ton Helztel in the Seatle area is building an Olds Aurora (baby Nstar)powered one.

[boosted ls1]

I like the northstar also but decided that it has a weight penalty. My main concern though is that it seems to be untouchable for the average spanner wielding mechanic/enthusiast. Hasn't it got quad cams which are advanced and retarded by servo's controlled by the ecu? I also never found out how wide it is across the heads. No doubt that it's an excellent engine if left stock. Is the pcm tweakable for this engine? My favourites still the ls1.

[jschwartz]

It is pretty wide across the heads, but since Tom has already installed the 4 liter Aurora version (pics on www.ultimaclub.com in the members area)it must fit the Ultima.
For info on computers to program the Northstar and other hi perf goodies, blowers, turbos, etc, see: www.chrfab.com