When the fourth-generation Corvette launched in 1984, General Motors felt the pressure to leave Honda and Toyota in the rearview mirror—both automakers threatened to build better supercars. So in 1990, General Motors introduced the Corvette ZR-1, the fastest production car on the road, according to the National Corvette Museum.
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What’s special about the ZR-1 is the LT5 engine, a dual overhead cam V8 with four valves per cylinder that was developed by General Motors in partnership with Lotus Engineering. The LT5 debuted as a “technical marvel” using a block of aluminum.
An all-new engine would be more expensive to develop, but GM’s leadership believes the lessons learned from the program will benefit the company in the long run.
The LT5 is very special and requires complex assembly. GM has a contract with Mercury Marine, which builds the motors at its plant in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Mercury typically makes engines for speedboats, but these engines are also made from aluminum alloys like LT5.
Mercury workers hand-built 18 engines a day until General Motors discontinued the ZR-1 in November 1993.
While they only produced a few of them, the Stage 5 crate engines are even rarer. They are manufactured as replacement or spare parts for ZR1 owners. Many have never been installed.
Well, next month, Mecum Auctions is looking to cash in on a 1995 Corvette ZR1 Phase 5 engine still sealed in its original crate. The engine will be sold at Mecum’s Kissimmee 2026 auction.
The factory-sealed LT5 crate engine highlights the growing demand for stand-alone powerplants as collectibles. Mecum’s “Parts Collection” has proliferated as enthusiasts increasingly bid for rare transmissions, engines and even factory tools. The auction listing emphasizes the original condition of the engine and comes with original packaging and documentation.
Sales of the LT5 engine have recently reached $50,000.
Currently known as Lot S27, this LT5 makes the idea of a Corvette supercar a reality and will be up for grabs on Saturday, January 17, 2026 to the highest bidder.
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