Craving a heart-pounding thrill behind the wheel? Crate engines are pre-built power plants ready to transform your car. These engineering wonders will turn your weekend warrior into a track-shredding beast and we’ve compiled the highest-revving V8 crate engines on the market for you.
Chevrolet LS7 – 7,000 RPM
This legendary engine is a naturally aspirated powerhouse, getting its power without a supercharger. With its high 7,000 rpm redline and perfect balance of force and handling, the LS7 is a favorite for tuners and muscle car enthusiasts. While the hp varies depending on modifications, it typically delivers around 505 hp and impressive torque thanks to its big 7.0L displacement.
Jaguar AJ-V8 – 7,300 RPM
With one of the highest RPMs on the list, this British gem prioritizes high revs for a thrilling, Formula 1-inspired experience. You get between 240 and 592 hp depending on the year in an engine that focuses on lightweight construction and agile maneuverability. Finding a new one might be a challenge, as these engines were primarily used in Jaguar sports cars.
Direct Connection Supercharged Hellephant 426 – 6,800 RPM
The Hellephant is all about raw, tire-shredding power, making it a perfect fit for drag racing. This 7.0L giant utilizes a supercharger to crank out a mind-blowing 1,000 hp in its lightweight aluminum body.
Prestige Supercharged 427 LS – 6,500 RPM
Blending lends impressive power with daily drivability, the 427 LS utilizes a supercharger to deliver around 800 hp, making it a force to be reckoned with. The slightly lower 6,500 rpm redline compared to some on this list allows for a broader powerband and potentially better fuel economy.
Ford 5.0L Gen 3 Aluminator Crate Engine – 7,500 RPM
This option offers a fantastic blend of high-revving performance and relative affordability. The 5.0L Aluminator utilizes a high-performance intake and heads to achieve a 7,500 rpm redline, delivering around 460 hp. While not the most extreme on this list, it’s a well-rounded package for enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank.
Lexus 2UR-GSE – 7,300 RPM
Another high-revving marvel, the 2UR-GSE, is a technological marvel. This 5.0L V8 features direct injection and variable valve timing, allowing it to produce around 480 hp. It’s made of aluminum, so it doesn’t add weight to your vehicle. However, Lexus engines are rare and can be expensive to acquire.
Dodge 6.4L 392 Hemi Crate Engine – 6,400 RPM
Muscle car lovers find the Hemi one of the best options. It delivers a healthy 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque while reaching a respectable 6,400 rpm redline. It offers a fantastic combination of power, iconic sound, and relative affordability.
Audi FSI V8 – 7,800 RPM
Admire German engineering with this naturally aspirated 4.2L powerhouse screaming to a staggering 7,800 rpm redline without a supercharger. It typically delivers around 370 hp but this differs according to the version you buy. The FSI V8 prioritizes high-revving performance and a thrilling driving experience, but finding one in a box might be difficult.
Chevrolet Performance ZZ632/1000 – 5,600 RPM
As the most powerful offering by Chevrolet, this is a torque monster that sacrifices peak revs for low-end power. With a 5,600 rpm redline, it might not scream as high as others, but it delivers a whopping 738 lb-ft of torque and 1000 hp. This engine is perfect for heavy vehicles.
Mercedes-AMG M156/M159 – 8,000 RPM
As a twin-turbocharged early 2000s beast, this engine offers a ferocious combination of high revs and monstrous strength. Depending on the specific version, it can reach up to 8,000 rpm and deliver over 600 hp. These models are known for their complexity and hefty price tag, making them ideal for serious performance builds with deep pockets.
Ford Coyote/Voodoo – 8,250 RPM
The Ford camp brings the fight with the tire-shredding Coyote and the Voodoo. The 5.0L wonder boasts a sky-high 8,250 rpm redline. The hp output differs according to the model, but it’s usually over 500 hp. The Voodoo takes it a step further with a track-focused design, pushing performance limits.
NRE Roots Blown Mopar HEMI 572 – 7,000 RPM
Combining classic Mopar muscle with modern muscle-building techniques, the 572 cubic inch Hemi packs a roots-style supercharger to deliver a tire-shredding 7,000 rpm redline and over 1,000 hp. It’s perfect for drag strip dominance or building a tire-smoking street monster.
BMW S65 – 8,400 RPM
Found in iconic M-series BMWs, this 4.4L engine prioritizes high-revving performance and a thrilling driving experience. It typically offers about 450 hp. Finding a true crate version might be a challenge, but enthusiasts often source used S65s for project builds.
Ferrari F136 – 9,000 RPM
A masterpiece of Italian engineering, the F136 touches the mind-blowing 9,000 rpm redline, focusing on lightweight construction and a thrilling soundtrack. The hp you get depends on the year, but it typically delivers around 600 hp. It accelerates to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 202 mph.
Porsche M18.00 – 9,150 RPM
urking in the hearts of iconic Porsche Carrera GTs, this engine screams to an otherworldly 9,150 rpm redline. It’s designed to reach a staggering 880 hp, prioritizing an exhilarating, track-focused experience. The complexity of this engine makes it an exclusive option for the truly well-heeled automotive lover with top-notch mechanics at their disposal.
