Corvette Glossary Of Terms
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L36 Engine
The highly successful and versatile 427 cubic inch (426.7cuin) (7.0 L) version of the Mark IV engine was introduced in 1966 as a production engine option for full sized Chevrolets and Corvettes. The bore was increased to 4.25 inches (108 mm), with power ratings varying widely depending on the application. There were smooth running versions with hydraulic lifters suitable for powering the family station wagon, as well as rough idling, high-revving solid lifter models that resembled racing powerplants.
The L-36 engine was produced from 1966-1969, and had 10.25:1 compression, Holley or Q-jet carburetor, nodular iron crankshaft, hydraulic lifters, oval port closed chamber heads, and two-bolt main caps. It produced 385 hp (287 kW) in full-size cars, 390 hp (290 kW) in Corvettes. Corvsport Page References: 1966 Overview, 1968 Overview.
L48 Engine
The L-48 V8 was the standard engine in the 1975–1980 Chevrolet Corvette. The L-48 V8 Corvette engine produced 165 bhp in 1975. Power increased to 180 bhp in 1976 and stayed the same in 1977. 1978 saw 175 bhp for California or high altitude areas and 185 bhp for everywhere else. Power increased to 195 bhp in 1979 and decreased to 190 bhp in 1980. Corvsport Page References: 1975 Overview.
L68 Engine
Manufactured from 1967-1969, the L68 engine had 10.25:1 compression, Tri-Power, nodular iron crankshaft, hydraulic lifters, aluminum oval port closed chamber heads, and two-bolt main caps. It produced 400 hp (300 kW), and was used exclusively in Corvettes. Corvsport Page References:Â 1968 Overview.
