Nelson Racing Released Outlaw 427 Crate Engine

The new performance crate engine delivers up to 1,500 horsepower using a specialized twin-turbocharged LS architecture.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Performance Vehicles

Nelson Racing Released Outlaw 427 Crate Engine

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Nelson Racing has officially released the Outlaw 427, a performance crate engine based on General Motors LS architecture. The unit is designed to produce 1,200 horsepower on regular gas and up to 1,500 horsepower when running on race fuel.

Why it matters

This release provides a high-performance modular power solution for custom vehicle builders who require extreme output from a compact engine block. By utilizing a dual-turbo configuration, the engine offers significant power density for specialized automotive projects.

The Outlaw 427 features 428 cubic inches of displacement with a 9.0:1 compression ratio, operating at 7,200 rpm. Each unit is equipped with two 72.0-millimeter Mirror Image Generation 2 turbochargers and retails for $41,999.

The players

Nelson Racing

Nelson Racing is a United States-based manufacturer that specializes in building custom high-performance engines and forced-induction systems.

The details

The engine utilizes an aluminum block with iron cylinder sleeves and a six-bolt head design to manage extreme power output. It also includes billet compressor wheels and custom exhaust manifolds, with every unit undergoing individual dyno-testing by Nelson Racing prior to shipment.

September 20, 2026: The engine was officially announced.

Roadmap

This launch highlights the ongoing trend of leveraging legacy engine architectures to support extreme aftermarket performance demands. By pushing the General Motors LS platform into the 1,500 horsepower tier, Nelson Racing distinguishes its offerings from mass-produced crate alternatives.

Enthusiasts looking to acquire this engine must account for the $41,999 purchase price and the specialized fuel requirements needed to achieve the 1,500 horsepower rating. Buyers should also verify that their vehicle chassis can safely support the extreme torque generated at 7,200 rpm.

The takeaway

The Outlaw 427 represents a significant escalation in power density for builders who rely on proven GM-based engine architectures. Proper installation of such a high-output unit typically requires substantial upgrades to drivetrain and cooling systems to handle the increased thermal and mechanical load.