In an ongoing effort to learn and tune some of the current and upcoming LSx based GM engines and transmissions. Attempting to expand and adapt in this current economy, we’ve decided that the GM LSx engines, Automatic transmissions, and tuning for them might be a viable direction for us. We are using HP-tuners Software and Hardware to tune the GM stuff. We’ve actually been tuning and doing some performance mods and installs to the GMs since shortly after moving into our new facility located in Chesterfield, MI during the 2007 season.

I feel that the new Pontiac G8 is an excellent performance platform that starts out as a great foundation which will, and already has proven to respond nicely to minor and major mods from what we’ve seen prior to acquiring ours. Put simply – “it’s just a cool sedan that’s rear drive with a small block V-8!”

Without getting overly technical, I’ll spell out the basics of the stock power train. Our shop-owned G8 is equipped with a L76 pushrod engine that is rated at 362 HP. It’s attached to a modern 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. It has an independent rear suspension, and the stock rear axle ratio is 2.92. Seems kind of like a weak axle ratio, but it must be noted that the first gear ratio in the supplied trans is a steep 4.03. Where as most average automatics typically have a first gear ratio of about 2.5 to 3.2:1. Even though first gear is rather steep, this doesn’t rule out the potential need for a bigger gear for the guys looking to maximize naturally aspirated performance because of the weight of the car, and possibly different tire diameters--which by the way it does weigh in at just a little under 4000lbs.