There’s no doubt that LS engine swaps are a staple method of adding modern power and reliability to your old muscle car or many other cars; LS engines have even been transplanted into Mazda Miatas and Mini Coopers. Just know that getting an LS3 crate engine (an engine fully assembled in a wooden shipping crate) will hurt your wallet a little more than your average LS that was plucked from a scrap truck
According to GM Performance Parts Discount Gandrud Chevrolet in Wisconsin, the basic long block assembly, which you can complete with your own ignition system, intake manifold, carburetor or fuel injection and other necessary parts is they can buy for $6,042. The complete engine with pretty much everything needed out of the box can be had for about $9,124.
A rare version of the LS3, installed only on Corvettes with Grand Sport trim and manual transmissions, has a dry sump oil system that prevents oil starvation during hard acceleration and cornering, a feature which carried over to the ultimate LS engine, the LS7. . That said, a dry sump oil system is probably overkill for most street cars.
If you need more power and your credit card hasn’t self-destructed yet, there are plenty of aftermarket speed parts for the LS3. One of those power adders is a supercharger, which is an ideal match for the LS3’s rugged architecture. With completely stock internals, the boosted LS3s have made between 650 and 700 horsepower on the dyno. This will make your Miata fly.
