Big Block Fever: First Anniversary 427 Big Block ZL-1 on the block at Barrett Jackson

Monster motors were the order of the day in the late 1960s, and GM's 427 was a part of that class. The drawback to a big-block's burly output was, and still is, the increased weight of the engine. While big blocks are a hoot for straight line shenanigans, a small block car is often a better all-around performer. That goes out the window for most of us upon tapping that vast well of torque, and there was a solution direct from GM. The ZL1 was a 427 rendered in aluminum to save weight and carried a 430 horsepower rating. The ZL1 is the stuff of legend, commanding the sharp intake of breath when mentioned with the Corvette, and reverent silence should the COPO Camaro be cited.

GM Performance Parts is whipping up a limited run of all new ZL1s, built from the same tooling as the original. A total of 427 of the Anniversary 427 Big Block engines will be produced, creating a new piece of automotive unobtanium while leaving the ZL1 mystique intact. You might even argue that the new engine run will add to the lore. We'll get to see just how much of a clamor there might be for these new engines when the very first Anniversary 427 Big Block crate engine, serial number 001, goes up for bid at the upcoming Barrett-Jackson auction. The remaining 426 engines will be available soon from GM Performance Parts dealers, and will likely be snapped up like rabid moms going after Hannah Montana tickets.

[Source: GM via Winding Road]

Anniversary 427 Big Block serial #001 to be auctioned on January 18 - Collectible engines to be offered to public early in 2008

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ – The first produced, all-aluminum Anniversary 427 Big Block crate engine – based on the legendary ZL-1 – will be auctioned during the Barrett-Jackson auction on Friday, January 18 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Only 427 of the special engines will be built.

Simply mentioning the term 'ZL-1' stirs the emotions of Chevy performance enthusiasts. "By using the tooling that built the original engines, we're able to revive the spirit of that legend 40 years later," said Lisa Reffett, marketing manager, GM Performance Parts. "All of these engines will be pretty special. But, someone has to own #001 and we're excited to work with Barrett-Jackson to find that lucky person."

The Anniversary 427 is a modern recreation of the mythical, all-aluminum ZL-1 427 engine. It is rated at an underrated 430 horsepower and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. "This is a special engine and the lucky customers who buy one will know they got something unique," said Reffett. "Cars are collectable and we're sure the Anniversary 427 will be, too."

Each engine will come with a complementing Anniversary Edition package that includes a certificate of authenticity, an engine plate with specifications and a matching number owner's kit to add to its exclusivity. The limited run of the Anniversary 427 will go on sale early in 2008. See the Anniversary 427 Big Block at SEMA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4CATslWmFo&feature=related

For more information on the Barrett-Jackson auction, visit www.barrett-jackson.com/

Enthusiasts who crave the latest technology, horsepower and the expertise and confidence backed by GM, can purchase GMPP crate engines, blocks, heads and components, from GMPP Authorized Center dealers or any GM dealership nationwide. For more information or to locate the closest GM dealership visit www.gmperformanceparts.com or call 1-800-577-6888.

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