New Corvette’s Engine Rated at 460 hp

The new 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 that will power the 2014 Corvette Stingray sports car has been rated by SAE International at 460 hp and 465-lb-of of torque. That's 10 hp more than General Motors Co. initially estimated.

Both ratings for the small-block engine are for units fitted with an optional performance exhaust system. GM notes that the LT1's output of 74 hp per liter gives it a greater power density than the previous-generation Corvette's 6.2-liter LS3 or the 7.0-liter LS7 engines.

The new powerplant will channel its power to the rear wheels through either a seven-speed Tremec manual or six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic gearbox.

GM reiterates that the new 'Vette, which goes on sale in a few months, is expected to dash from zero to 60 mph in less than four seconds.

The company attributes the naturally aspirated V-8's improved performance to direct injection and continuously variable valve timing. The engine, which reaches 90% of peak torque at 3,000 rpm, is the 'Vette's most power standard engine ever. The powerplant also features the car's first use of cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts down half the cylinders during coasting or light-load conditions.