[SuperMacGuy]

I see in Autoweek that the 2013 or 14 new Corvette engine is designated LT1. Why do they do that? Why use the same name as the older engine that everyone knows? I don't get how it works. Why not call it the LT2 or LS4 or YH99. Maybe there won't be confusion but maybe there will be, especially considering that the old LT1 is still in service in a lot of cars, not like it was last used in the 1960's and no one will really get them mixed up.

http://www.gizmag.com/chevy-2014-corvette-lt1-v8/24705/

[mr.beachcomber]

It's simply marketing...branding an object with a performance moniker. For example, Z06 was first used on the model year (MY) 1963 Corvette for an SCCA club racing Corvette coupe complete with an FI 327, brand new 4-spd, close ratio Muncie coupled with a posi 3.70 rear end ratio, knock-off wheels, heat/radio delete options, sintered metallic brakes, a fiberglass 36 gallon fuel tank, and special offroad exhaust system for dealer installation prior to delivery. The ZR1 option for club racing was first offered in MY 1970 Corvette for an LT-1 SBC, M22 4-spd, posi 3.70 rear end (standard, but buyer could specify ratio down to 2.73), special transistor ignition, aluminum radiator (vice standard brass/copper unit), heavy duty power brakes, heater/radio delete, and special springs, shocks, and front & rear sway bars.

Using the LT1 designation is simple an continuation of Chevy's attempt to performance brand their product. (For those that wonder why Chevy used the LT1 designation for their 2nd gen SBC, take a look at the engine performance chart below for the 1991 L98, 1970 LT-1, and the 1992 LT1 engines. The 2nd gen engine actually produced 15 more HP than Chevy admitted while besting the 1970 engine overall!)

(IMG:http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac219/MrBeachcomber/PowerCurves.jpg)