When the 8.1L Vortec came out it was weird because while it was 496 cubic inches, a very common 454 stroker combo size, it was easy to think that this was just a bigger version of the big block we all know and love. But there is more to it than that. This engine has several differences that can help it make more power and do so more efficiently. It shares some technology with LS engines and in fact, some people think of it as an 8.1L LS.

In this new video from Richard Holdener, he tests the 8.1L and shows what a difference headers can make. But should they be small or large long tubes on the fairly big big block?

Video Description:

8.1L PERFORMANCE-THE OTHER GUYS BIG BLOCK CHEVY! HOW DO I MAKE MORE TORQUE? HOW TO IMPROVE 8.1L PERFORMANCE! HOW MUCH POWER DOES THE 8.1L GEN 7 BIG BLOCK REALLY MAKE? DO HEADERS ADD POWER OR TORQUE? CHECK OUT PART 1 OF THE SERIES ON THE OTHER GUYS 8.1L, GEN-7 BIG BLOCK CHEVY. IN PART 1, I COMPARED THE STOCK, CAST-IRON EXHAUST MANIFOLDS TO LONG TUBE HEADERS (TWO DIFFERENT SIZES). I ALSO TESTED COLLECTOR EXTENSIONS AND A CUSTOM, ALUMINUM AIR INTAKE! THESE 8.1L MOTORS MAKE IMPRESSIVE TORQUE!