While many traditional hot-rod enthusiasts express disappointment over the Corvette’s transition to a mid-engine design, others are actively modifying the vehicle. The aftermarket industry has certainly responded with numerous bolt-on parts, but few anticipated the creation of a C8 Chevy Corvette featuring a direct-injected, 8.1-liter big-block engine with variable valve timing. This innovative idea comes from Larry Hofer, a performance expert at General Motors who literally authored a book on this specific engine. Now, the project is not only conceptual but also operational.
The entire build process is being chronicled on YouTube by Greg Quirin, the same individual who previously filmed and interviewed engineers working on a homemade V12 for a land-speed car. Quirin aims to document Hofer’s project in a straightforward manner, presenting it in real-time without rapid cuts or editing gimmicks. It’s highlighted as an extensive, two-year undertaking (and still ongoing) that has required significant expertise to reach this point.
For those unfamiliar, the 8.1-liter big-block engine was originally designed for trucks and did not come with features like direct injection or variable valve timing in its factory model. This transformation is a significant aspect of Hofer’s project. Achieving the engine’s functionality in its new configuration has been an engineering accomplishment on its own, especially given the upgraded performance it delivers. While the original engine produced 325 horsepower, the modified version now generates 525 horsepower—an increase of 200 horsepower—thanks to new heads, an improved intake, and a revised camshaft.
For more details, you can watch the project’s progress here:
Hofer’s expertise is evident in his work with this big-block engine. Had he not known what he was doing, he likely wouldn’t have made it this far, particularly in getting the engine to communicate effectively with the C8 Corvette’s onboard computers to enable it to start.
The latest update reveals that the 8.1-liter engine has been successfully installed and is operational. While it is currently registering some fault codes—including one for the crankshaft position sensor—Hofer believes these issues may be resolved with a simple timing adjustment. It is remarkable to witness the modern Corvette’s sensors and digital dashboard interacting with a V8 engine that hasn’t been in production for trucks in 17 years.
The video is set to begin with the first startup attempt. You have the option to rewind and watch the entire project from the start:
There is still more work ahead—the Corvette is not yet able to move under its own power. However, that capability will be achieved in due course as Hofer continues to refine this groundbreaking setup. I am eager to see the results, and I’m not swayed by the fact that this build is only marginally more powerful than the standard 490-hp Stingray. Performance isn’t everything; the distinction between a Stingray with upgraded exhaust and intake versus one outfitted with a big-block is unquestionable, and the latter is almost always viewed as the cooler option.
Keep up the great work, Mr. Hofer.
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