1971 Chevrolet Camaro SS 396/ LS3

Great question! Here’s the real deal on the 396 vs LS3 in a 1971 Camaro:

The Original 396 Big-Block (what this car actually has):

• 396 cubic inches, cast iron beast weighing ~680 lbs
• 260-350 horsepower depending on configuration
• Era-correct and numbers-matching (which this car is)
• Maintains collector value and authenticity

Modern LS3 Swap:

• 376 cubic inches but makes 430-525 horsepower - way more power!
• Aluminum block weighing only 445 lbs (235 lbs lighter = better handling)
• Fuel injected, more reliable, better fuel economy
• Not era-correct, but tons more performance

The Reality: This particular Camaro’s listing is a bit misleading. While the title says “396/LS3,” the description clearly states it has the original numbers-matching 396 with MacNeish certification. The LS3 mention is likely just for search visibility - this car definitely has the original 396 big-block.

So you’re looking at a genuine 1971 SS 396, which is pretty special since only 1,533 were made that year. The LS3 would be a modern swap that sacrifices originality for performance. Which would you prefer - keeping it original or going for modern power?