LS9 Engine Guide: Specs, Features, & More

Most would agree that the Corvette’s no holds barred approach to performance excellence is high up on the list of the iconic American sports car’s most beloved characteristics. Just when one is inclined to believe that the Corvette’s overall output has peaked, with no perceivable way to provide any further noteworthy gains, GM’s design and development team shifts gears once more.

There has likely been no better case study of this unceasing dedication to forward progress than the LS9. Just when many had begun to question whether or not the further development of GM’s famed LS platform had plateaued, the LS9 burst onto the scenes, unequivocally elevating the 2009 ZR1’s performance merit and silencing all skeptics.

The History of the LS9

In more ways than one, the LS9 was born out of what could easily be referred to as GM’s darkest hour. The financial crisis of 2008 had taken its toll on the illustrious automaker, and the piper had to be paid. With nowhere to go but under, GM filed for Chapter 11 reorganization on June 1, 2009, in Manhattan New York federal bankruptcy court.