Top 15 Best Crate Engines Chevy You Can Buy Today
Some of X Factor’s Best Engines
Ford 306 Windsor Block
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By X Factors Motorsports
When building a custom car or revitalizing a classic ride, selecting the right crate engine is crucial. While older vehicles have timeless charm, they often lack modern power and reliability. That’s where crate engines come in—complete, ready-to-run motors designed to upgrade your project into a show-stopping performer.
In this 2024 guide, we’ll highlight 15 of the best crate engines on the market, factoring in performance, reliability, and versatility. From budget-friendly small blocks to forced-induction monsters, there’s an option here for every enthusiast.
What to Consider When Buying a Crate Engine
Before investing in a crate engine, keep these factors in mind:
- Engine Size & Configuration
- Measured in liters or cubic inches, engine size affects power and vehicle compatibility. From inline-fours to V8 setups, choose a configuration that aligns with your project’s goals.
- Aspiration & Fuel Delivery
- Forced induction (turbocharged or supercharged) yields significant power gains, while EFI offers improved efficiency over carburetion.
- Horsepower & Torque Output
- Look at peak figures and RPM range. For racing, high-revving power might be ideal; for towing or off-road, low-end torque is essential.
- Physical Dimensions
- Ensure the engine will physically fit your engine bay. Account for accessories like the transmission, cooling system, and exhaust layout.
- Tuning Potential
- Some engines allow greater aftermarket support for modifications, offering room to grow your build.
- Fuel Type
- Most crate engines run on pump gas, but high-compression or forced-induction motors may require premium or race fuels.
- Additional Costs
- Factor in shipping, install fees, and extras like wiring harnesses, alternators, and starters that might not be included.
Top 15 Crate Engines
1. Ford 306 Windsor Block
| Engine | 5.0L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 340 HP |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft |
| Price | $4,000 |
| Why Buy | Affordable, reliable, and widely supported by the aftermarket. |
Ideal for budget-friendly projects or first-time engine swaps, the Ford 306 Windsor offers reliability and a vast aftermarket.
2. GM Performance SP350/385
| Engine | 5.7L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 385 HP |
| Torque | 405 lb-ft |
| Price | $5,623+ |
| Why Buy | Plug-and-play option with great value. |
A small-block Chevy with modern upgrades, the SP350/385 is a versatile choice for muscle cars or restomods.
3. Honda Civic Type R K20C1
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.0L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 HP |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft |
| Price | $6,519 |
| Why Buy | High-performance compact engine with unbeatable value. |
Perfect for lightweight and front-wheel drive builds, the K20C1 brings turbocharged power to smaller platforms.
4. Ford Performance 2.3L EcoBoost
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.3L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 310 HP |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft |
| Price | $6,550 |
| Why Buy | Ideal for lightweight RWD conversions. |
This EcoBoost crate engine packs punchy performance while retaining respectable fuel efficiency.
5. Ford Godzilla 7.3L V8
| Engine | 7.3L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 430 HP |
| Torque | 475 lb-ft |
| Price | $7,000 |
| Why Buy | Great for heavier vehicles and towing. |
Nicknamed Godzilla, Ford’s modern pushrod V8 is known for robust torque and simple maintenance.
6. GM Performance eROD LS3
| Engine | 6.2L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 430 HP |
| Torque | 425 lb-ft |
| Price | $9,180+ |
| Why Buy | CARB-compliant while delivering strong power. |
An emissions-friendly option that still offers classic LS performance—ideal for states with strict regulations.
7. Ford Gen 3 5.0L Coyote
| Engine | 5.0L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 460 HP |
| Torque | 420 lb-ft |
| Price | $12,695 |
| Why Buy | Pre-tuned for resto-mods and off-road builds. |
A third-generation Coyote features improved breathing and excellent aftermarket support.
8. Mopar Hellcat HEMI
| Engine | Supercharged 6.2L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 707 HP |
| Torque | 650 lb-ft |
| Price | $16,000 |
| Why Buy | Supercar-level power in a proven package. |
A forced-induction behemoth for those seeking extreme horsepower in Mopar muscle cars.
9. Chevy Performance LT5
| Engine | Supercharged 6.2L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 755 HP |
| Torque | 715 lb-ft |
| Price | $18,971 |
| Why Buy | Corvette ZR1 engineering in crate form. |
One of Chevy’s most advanced supercharged engines, boasting massive torque and modern EFI systems.
10. Chevy LSX454R
| Engine | 7.4L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 750 HP |
| Torque | 680 lb-ft |
| Price | $24,037 |
| Why Buy | The ultimate big-cube LS track engine. |
A high-output LS that thrives in drag racing and serious track builds.
11. Katech Gen 5 LT5 BEAST
| Engine | Supercharged 6.2L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 1,159 HP |
| Torque | 1,064 lb-ft |
| Price | $24,801+ |
| Why Buy | Track-focused design with road-legal variants. |
If you want four-digit power in a cutting-edge package, Katech’s BEAST variant is hard to beat.
12. Mopar Hellephant
| Engine | Supercharged 7.0L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 1,000 HP |
| Torque | 950 lb-ft |
| Price | $30,000 |
| Why Buy | Legendary performance for elite builds. |
One of the most sought-after crate engines on the market, perfect for dominating shows and tracks alike.
13. Racecast V12 LS
| Engine | 9.5L V12 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 700+ HP |
| Torque | 696 lb-ft |
| Price | $55,200 |
| Why Buy | A unique twist on the classic LS platform. |
For those seeking exclusivity and a V12 soundtrack, this engine sets any build apart.
14. Hartley Enterprises H1 MAXI V8
| Engine | 3.1L V8 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 420–520 HP |
| Torque | 240–280 lb-ft |
| Price | $29,000+ |
| Why Buy | Ultra-light and customizable for track builds. |
A compact V8 solution for lightweight or exotic projects aiming to balance power and agility.
15. HKS-Tuned Nissan RB26DETT
| Engine | 2.8L Inline-Six |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 600+ HP |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft |
| Price | $57,000 |
| Why Buy | Legendary JDM engine with HKS expertise. |
A JDM icon known for its high-rev capability and tuner-friendly design—perfect for Skyline-inspired builds.
Conclusion
Today’s crate engine market offers something for every budget and application. From affordable small blocks like the Ford 306 Windsor to the 1,000+ HP Mopar Hellephant, there’s no shortage of high-performance powerplants for custom projects or resto-mods. Prioritize factors like engine size, aspiration, and tuning potential to find the perfect match for your build. With these top picks, your dream car—or truck—is just a crate engine away.
- Top 5 Supercharged Crate Engines for Modern Muscle
- Carbureted vs. EFI: Pros & Cons for Crate Engines
- How to Prepare Your Drivetrain for 1,000+ HP
X Factors Motorsports specializes in crate engines, drivetrain upgrades, and expert advice for automotive enthusiasts. Check out our Online Catalog or Contact Us to get started on your high-performance build today!
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