What are the differences between the base engine and the L-82?
The L-82 succeed the original LT-1. Making it’s debut in 1973 with a 9.0:1 compression ratio, 2.02-inch intake/1.60-inch exhaust valves and hydraulic lifters. It was rated at 250 net horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 285 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. By comparison, the L-48 had an 8.5:1 compression ratio, 1.94-inch intake/1.50-inch exhaust valves and a milder camshaft. It’s power rating was 190 hp at 4,400 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm. Compared to the L-48, the L-82 has large port cylinder heads, pushrod guideplates, a longer duration camshaft, a forged-steel crankshaft, forged aluminum pistons, moly rings, finned aluminum valve covers, a higher capacity starter and a four-bolt main block. Horsepower ratings of the two engines varied from year to year as Chevrolet attempted to meet changing emissions and fuel economy requirements. The L-82 horsepower ratings ranged from a high of 250 in 19’73-19’74 to a low of 205 in 19’75. In 1980, it’s last year of production, the L-82 was rate
