Choosing the Right Engine Swap: LS vs. 383 Stroker vs. HEMI

Choosing the Right Engine Swap: LS vs. 383 Stroker vs. HEMI

A Performance Guide from The Hot Rod Shop

At The Hot Rod Shop, engine swaps are the heart of what we do. Whether you’re building a street cruiser, a show car, or a tire-shredding performance machine, choosing the right engine is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Each platform brings its own personality, power delivery, cost considerations, and long-term reliability.

Below, we break down the most popular engine swaps our customers choose, along with the pros and cons of each—and how to pair them with the right exhaust system for maximum performance and sound.

LS Engine Swaps (The Most Popular Choice)

Why customers love them:

LS engines are by far the most requested swap we do—and for good reason.

" I have to take up for the modern stuff. EFI is what I grew up on and what I've raced (albeit different applications) to me modern EFI is more simple and makes more sense." states The Hot Rod Shop's Project Manager-ERIK GETTY

Common LS Specs:

• Displacement: 5.3L, 6.0L, 6.2L

• Horsepower: 350–650+ (naturally aspirated)

• Fuel Injection (factory)

• Aluminum or iron block options

• Tremendous aftermarket support

Pros:

Extremely reliable

Affordable power per dollar

Compact size (fits almost anything)

Easy tuning and modern drivability

Parts availability nationwide

Excellent fuel efficiency for the power

Cons:

✘ Not “era-correct” for purists

✘ Wiring and ECU integration required

✘ Overused in some circles (but for a reason)

Best for:

• Daily-driven classics

• Restomods

• Trucks and muscle cars

• Customers wanting turnkey reliability with modern performance

383 Stroker (Classic Muscle Feel)

Why customers choose it:

The 383 stroker is the go-to for those who want traditional V8 muscle with modern upgrades while keeping the classic look under the hood.

"Chevy Gen 1 Stroker motors...carburetor...this is what I grew up with and now I personally use them for the race trac.....So I am 1000% for old school" says Master Mechanic and Engine Swap gu ru TIM BYRD

Common 383 Specs:

• Based on a Small Block Chevy

• Carbureted or EFI

• Horsepower: 400–550

• Big torque down low

Pros:

Classic appearance

Strong torque curve

Period-correct feel

Incredible exhaust note

Great for show cars

Cons:

✘ Less fuel efficiency

✘ Carb tuning can be finicky

✘ Higher maintenance

✘ Less long-term reliability than LS

✘ More heat management required

Best for:

• Vintage muscle cars

• Nostalgic builds

• Customers who value sound and tradition over tech

HEMI Engine Swaps (Power & Prestige)

Why customers want them:

HEMI swaps are all about brute force, visual impact, and Mopar heritage.

Common HEMI Specs:

• 5.7L / 6.1L / 6.4L

• Horsepower: 375–700+

• Modern EFI

• Massive torque output

Pros:

Incredible horsepower

Aggressive sound

Mopar authenticity

High resale value

Strong factory engineering

Cons:

✘ Expensive upfront cost

✘ Larger physical footprint

✘ More complex electronics

✘ Fewer aftermarket options than LS

✘ Tight fitment in non-Mopar platforms

Best for:

• Mopar builds

• High-end restomods

• Customers wanting exclusivity and muscle dominance

Exhaust Systems: What We Recommend

The engine is only as good as what it breathes—and sounds like.

LS & 383 Builds:

• Long-tube headers (ceramic-coated preferred)

• Dual 2.5”–3” exhaust

• X-pipe or H-pipe for balance

• Mufflers:

  
  

  • Borla (clean & refined)

  • MagnaFlow (deep muscle tone)

  • Flowmaster (classic aggressive rumble)

• 
  

HEMI Builds:

• High-flow headers

• 3” dual exhaust

• Straight-through mufflers for unrestricted flow

• Optional electronic exhaust cutouts for show-stopping sound on demand

Want loud?

Want refined?

Want selectable sound modes?

We tailor every exhaust system to the customer’s driving style and goals.

Final Thoughts from The Hot Rod Shop

There is no “one-size-fits-all” engine swap. The best choice depends on:

• How you drive

• How often you drive

• Budget

• Desired sound

• Authenticity vs. modern performance

At The Hot Rod Shop, we specialize in custom engine swaps done right—from mounts and wiring to tuning and exhaust. Our team walks you through every option so your build matches your vision and performs flawlessly.

Call us today for a complimentary consultation

The Hot Rod Shop – Asheboro, NC

336-625-1965

Your dream build starts with the right engine—and we’re here to make it happen.