The LS3 V8 Engine

Introducing one of our latest builds, a 620GE Wolf finished in Mercedes-Benz Designo Selenite Gray Magno over a Slate interior. Highlighting this 2-door G Wagon build is the monstrous GM LS3.

This V8-powered G follows the same philosophy as all EMC trucks: preserve the authentic 1990s Mercedes G Wagon character while improving drivability, refinement, and everyday usability. This build went through exactly this process, receiving our proprietary suspension, upgraded AMG braking system, and redesigned interior to enhance the experience without overwhelming the original DNA.

The Restoration

Each EMC Wolf begins life with a complete nut and bolt restoration. The truck is fully disassembled, taken down to bare metal, and then hand-built by our craftsmen from the ground up. Every single component on the vehicle is either restored to OEM-spec, replaced with a brand new part, or upgraded.  The end result is a custom G-Wagen that preserves the analog feel of a 1990s Mercedes-Benz paired with the comfort, reliability, and refinement of a hand-crafted modern vehicle.

Powertrain Highlight: The 6.2L LS3 V8

At the center of this specification is the LS3 V8, GM’s 6.2-liter small-block crate engine. In this application, the LS3 is paired with a brand-new 6L80E 6-speed automatic transmission yielding smooth shifts and predictable power delivery. The supporting systems are engineered in-house: a dedicated cooling package, a reinforced driveline, and braking hardware sized for the additional power. This is a great all-around package, allowing for both smooth around-town operation and confident highway cruising.

Engine Specs

The V8 itself is an all-aluminum 6.2-liter engine with modern fuel injection. In factory crate form, it is rated around 430 horsepower and more than 420 lb-ft of torque, with exact output depending on calibration and exhaust setup. For our G-Wagen builds, we tune the engine in the 350–430 horsepower range, prioritizing smooth, predictable, and linear response. What stands out in daily driving is the broad torque band: the LS3 delivers strong, usable torque across the rev range, allowing the Wolf to merge, pass, and climb grades with minimal effort while maintaining a relaxed cruising speed.

Applications and Availability

Part of what makes the LS3 appealing is its pedigree and the breadth of its applications. The engine has powered a wide range of factory performance cars, including the Corvette, Camaro SS , Pontiac G8 GXP, and Chevrolet SS sedan. Beyond factory platforms, the LS3 has become a staple in the performance and restomod world, appearing in road-course cars, drag builds, drift cars, classic restorations, and street-driven projects. That ubiquity speaks to the engine’s reliability and consistent performance.

Why We Offer the LS3 V8

Because the LS3 has been used so widely, it benefits from excellent parts availability and support. Service components, sensors, and consumables are easy to source, and many independent shops are familiar with modern GM V8s. For a client who prefers a gasoline V8 engine and plans to drive their vintage G for many years, that ecosystem matters. It simplifies maintenance, makes long-term ownership more predictable, and provides confidence that the engine can be serviced in a variety of locations.

Our decision to offer the LS3 as an engine option for our G-Wagens comes from that balance of performance and pedigree. It is the most powerful engine we offer, and it provides a different experience from our OM-series diesels while still suiting the chassis. It is an excellent choice for clients who want gasoline power in their Wolf or for those who prefer a brand-new crate engine over a fully-rebuilt engine.

The EMC 620GE Wolf

In use, an LS3-equipped Wolf feels familiar and different at the same time compared to our diesel builds. The driving characteristics, comfort, and authentic charm are however still very much present.  For drivers who want vintage character, open-air driving, and modern power in one package, the LS3 offers a compelling option within our lineup.

To explore more of our bespoke builds, visit our convertible G-Wagen builds page. If you’re interested in commissioning an LS3-powered Mercedes Wolf or comparing it with our OM602, OM605, or OM606 diesel builds, you can start by outlining your ideal specification in our online custom G-Wagen configurator: https://www.expeditionmotorcompany.com/custom-g-wagon-wolf-builder/#to-fixed