The Smoking Tire has released another interesting YouTube video covering an unusual engine swap project. A compact Subaru BRZ received an LS3 V8 after several years of planning, installation and tuning.
Apparently, the owner of this specific BRZ got tired of exploding Subaru engines while trying to squeeze at least 400 horsepower (300 kilowatts) out of them. After a few failed attempts, he decided that a General Motors V8 would be ideal for his goals – even though it did seem like an overkill.
The work took seven long years to complete, but the end result is a car weighing in under 1,400 kg (3,000 lbs), with a smaller body and wheelbase than the Chevrolet Corvette, and yet with even more power and sharper handling. The wheels get hit with 507 PS (500 hp / 373 kW), and the throttle response is virtually instant.
Speaking of shortcomings, the owner points out the ever-present smell of gasoline inside, which is apparently strong enough for him to keep the window open even in winter. Oh well, art demands sacrifices!