Top 10 Best Budget Cars for LS Swaps: Affordable Options for Engine Swapping Enthusiasts

Discover the best budget cars to LS swap! Upgrade your ride without breaking the bank. Find out which models are perfect for this engine swap.

Are you looking to boost your car's performance without breaking the bank? Look no further than LS swapping your budget ride. LS engines have become a popular choice for engine swaps due to their reliability, availability, and affordability. But what are the best budget cars to LS swap? In this article, we'll explore some of the top options that won't empty your wallet.

First on our list is the third-generation Chevrolet Camaro/Firebird ('82-'92). These cars can be found for relatively cheap and are perfect for LS swapping. The engine bay has plenty of room for the LS motor, and there are numerous parts available to make the swap a breeze. Plus, these cars already come with a rear-wheel-drive setup, making them ideal for high-performance driving.

Another great option for LS swapping is the fourth-generation Mustang ('94-'04). While they may not have the same cult following as the earlier Fox body Mustangs, these cars still pack a punch. The modular engine can easily be swapped out for an LS motor, and the aftermarket support for these cars is extensive. You can easily find performance parts to make your LS-swapped Mustang a true powerhouse.

If you're looking for something a little more unique, consider the Mazda RX-8. This rotary-powered sports car has a sleek design and can be found for relatively cheap. However, the rotary engine can be unreliable and costly to maintain. Swap it out for an LS motor, and you'll have a reliable and powerful sports car that turns heads.

The Nissan 240SX is another great budget car to LS swap. These cars are known for their rear-wheel-drive setup and sporty handling. The engine bay has plenty of room for an LS motor, and there are many swap kits available to make the process easier. Plus, the 240SX has a large aftermarket community, so you can find plenty of performance parts to make your LS swap even better.

For those who prefer a more classic look, the first-generation Ford Falcon ('60-'63) is a great option. These cars have a simple design and can be found for relatively cheap. The engine bay has enough room for an LS motor, and there are many parts available to make the swap easier. Plus, you'll have a unique classic car with modern LS power.

The BMW E36 is another popular option for LS swapping. These cars have a sleek design and are known for their sporty handling. The engine bay has enough room for an LS motor, and there are numerous swap kits available to make the process easier. Plus, the BMW E36 has a large aftermarket community, so you can easily find performance parts to take your LS-swapped car to the next level.

If you're looking for a budget muscle car to LS swap, consider the second-generation Dodge Charger ('68-'70). These cars have a classic design and are perfect for high-performance driving. The engine bay has enough room for an LS motor, and there are many swap kits available to make the process easier. Plus, these cars already come with a rear-wheel-drive setup, making them ideal for LS power.

Another classic muscle car that's perfect for LS swapping is the first-generation Pontiac GTO ('64-'67). These cars are highly sought after by collectors, but you can still find them for relatively cheap. The engine bay has enough room for an LS motor, and there are many parts available to make the swap easier. Plus, you'll have a classic muscle car with modern LS power.

For those who prefer imports, the Toyota Supra is a great option for LS swapping. These cars are known for their turbocharged engines and sporty handling. The engine bay has enough room for an LS motor, and there are many swap kits available to make the process easier. Plus, the Supra has a large aftermarket community, so you can easily find performance parts to enhance your LS-swapped car.

Last but not least, the Honda S2000 is another great import option for LS swapping. These cars have a sleek design and are known for their high-revving engines. While the F20C engine is already impressive, swapping it out for an LS motor can take it to the next level. The engine bay has enough room for an LS motor, and there are many swap kits available to make the process easier.

In conclusion, LS swapping a budget car is a great way to get more horsepower without spending a fortune. Whether you prefer muscle cars, sports cars, or imports, there's a budget car out there that's perfect for LS swapping. With the right parts and knowledge, you can turn your budget ride into a high-performance machine that will turn heads on the street and track.

Introduction

If you're looking to upgrade your car with a LS engine swap but don't want to break the bank, you've come to the right place! In this article, we'll explore some of the best budget cars that are perfect for an LS engine swap.

What is an LS engine?

The LS engine is a series of V8 engines produced by General Motors. They are known for their reliability, power, and versatility. The LS engine family includes several different versions, ranging from 4.8 to 7.0 liters in displacement.

Why do people swap LS engines?

LS engine swaps have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their affordability, availability, and compatibility with various car models. LS engines are also known for their high horsepower potential, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to build high-performance cars.

Best budget cars for LS swaps

1. Chevrolet Camaro (fourth generation)

The fourth-generation Chevrolet Camaro is a popular choice for LS swaps because they can be found at relatively low prices. The car's engine bay is spacious enough to accommodate an LS engine, and there are plenty of aftermarket parts available to make the swap easier.

2. Chevrolet Corvette (C4)

The C4 Corvette is another great option for LS swaps. These cars can be found at reasonable prices, and their lightweight construction makes them ideal for high-performance applications. The C4 Corvette's suspension and brakes can also handle the extra power from an LS engine.

3. Mazda RX-7 (third generation)

The third-generation Mazda RX-7 is a popular choice for LS swaps because they are lightweight and have a well-balanced chassis. The RX-7's engine bay is also spacious enough to accommodate an LS engine with relative ease.

4. Nissan 240SX

The Nissan 240SX is a popular car for LS swaps because they are affordable and have a strong aftermarket support. These cars have a spacious engine bay, making it easy to fit an LS engine. Plus, the 240SX's rear-wheel drive layout makes it a great platform for high-performance driving.

5. Ford Mustang (fourth generation)

The fourth-generation Ford Mustang is a popular choice for LS swaps because they can be found at relatively low prices. The Mustang's engine bay is spacious enough to accommodate an LS engine, and there are plenty of aftermarket parts available to make the swap easier.

Conclusion

LS engine swaps are a great way to upgrade your car's performance, but they don't have to break the bank. By choosing one of these budget-friendly cars, you can enjoy the benefits of an LS engine without spending a fortune. Remember, always do your research and consult with experts before starting any engine swap project.