A master of small block engines, GM engines were a staple to the introduction of Hot Rods and Restomods. The original LT1 (then the LT-1) was a small block engine that was available in the Corvette and Camaro Z28 at 370 hp and 360 hp, respectively. With 5.7L, cast-iron cylinder block, 11.0:1 compression ratio, a solid lifter, and 370 at 6,000 pm, the 1970 LT1 set a standard for the engine that returned in its latest version in 2014.

The second-generation LT1 featured a reverse cooling system and 300 hp @ 5,000 pm and 330 lb/ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Eighteen years after the second-generation LT1 was released in 1992, the Generation 5 (Next Generation) LT1 was released in 2014.

According to Motortrend, the 2014 LT1 is “one of the most technically advanced engines in the world and the most significant redesign of the small-block ever.” The 2014 Next Gen small-block LT1 is a 6.2 L 460 hp direct-injection engine with Hypereutectic Aluminum pistons and a max rpm @ 6600. This crate engine is one of Corvette’s most powerful engines to date, making it a perfect upgrade option for restomod companies like ECD.

Shortly after introducing the Land Rover ls swap to its lineup in 2016, ECD made the LS3 the staple of our restored Defenders. With the powerful LT1 being a more power-packed small-block than its predecessor, the LS3, the LT1 is quickly becoming the new V8 base engine for those looking for a more efficient upgrade for their custom Defender.

The Benefits of LT1 Defenders

As a new crate engine, ECD has been able to map out a blueprint for seamless integration and an easy-to-service setup. With Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System, the LT1 includes a wiring harness designed to retrofit this engine for older vehicles, making it a seamless restoration for our team. The V8 LT1 includes a 2-year, 50,000-mile warranty as with our other GM builds. This warranty and any vehicle maintenance are serviceable at any local Chevy dealership.

The LT1 has taken the Camaro from 0-60 in under 5 seconds, and with an LT1 Defender, you can expect your vehicle to reach 0-60 in 6 seconds, even with the added weight. Packing 460 hp with 465 lb/ft @4600 RPM, a unique block casting, and direct fuel injection, you can expect your LT1 Defender to coast smoothly on backroads and take on merging on the highway like a vehicle off the 2022 production line.

Available LT1 Land Rovers

The LT1 engine is available in the following vehicles from ECD:

• Series IIA
• Range Rover Classic
• Defender 90
• Defender 110
• Defender 130

The LT1 6.2L engine is also available for those looking to overhaul their original defender into an LT1 Defender. ECD’s Custom Defender trim level features the Chevrolet 6.2L LT1 V8 engine as standard.

LT1 Tech Specs

• Type of Engine: Direct Injection spark-ignition Gen-V Small-Block V-8
• Displacement: 376 (6.2L)
• Bore x Stroke: 4.065 x 3.622 (103.25 x 92mm)
• Block: Cast aluminum with 6-bolt nodular iron main bearing caps
• Crankshaft: Forged steel
• Connecting Rods: Forged powdered metal
• Pistons: Hypereutectic Aluminum
• Type of Camshaft: Billet steel roller
• Cylinder Heads: Aluminum, rectangular port D/I
• Valve Size: 2.130 intake / 1.590 exhaust
• Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
• Recommended Fuel: Premium pump
• Maximum Recommended rpm: 6600

Interested in learning more about building your dream custom Land Rover Defender? Get in touch with us at [email protected] to get started.