
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured

Gear, Grit, & The Great Outdoors
Overland Expo Mountain West 2024 just wrapped up, and if you weren’t there, you missed out on one heck of a great weekend. Held from August 23-25 in Loveland, Colorado, this event was the ultimate gathering for anyone who lives and breathes off-road adventure. We’re talking thousands of overlanding die-hards, hundreds of exhibitors, and more gear than you could shake a winch at.

SNAKE CHARMER
If there is such a thing as an ’03 Cobra sleeper, and we’re not sure there is, this car could easily fill that vacancy. For those who know their Mustangs, the front fascia, hood and rear spoiler are all signs that this is not a car to underestimate. But the ’03 Cobra, mighty as it is, isn’t invincible. So, if you’re prowling the streets or the track in some modded Mach or souped SS, you might see this car and assume you’ve got something for it. You don’t—Ford Racing made sure of that, throwing practically its entire catalog at this car. But if you bought the best Mustang available, and it still isn’t enough for you, Ford Racing has something for you—and this car is living proof.

AT ONE WITH THE PAVEMENT
If you’re like many of us, vacillating between the car you’ve always dreamed of owning and what you really can afford, be sure you know what you need before you shell out more money than sense. Check around, ask your friends, read magazines on the subject, surf the Internet, get connected, and you’re likely to find your dream car, even if it is not everything you think it is.
Spotlighter
POPULAR READS
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Smeding Performance’s 408″ LS3
A Complete, Ready to Drop In, 500HP Turnkey LS Engine Package
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photography Courtesy of Smeding Performance
One Block, Two Personalities
The foundation of both options is the same: a rock-solid 408 cubic-inch LS3, crafted with Smeding’s heavy-duty 6-bolt main block and forged internals. This isn’t just an LS with extra cubes—it’s a precision-built masterpiece ready to take abuse and deliver power mile after mile. From there, it’s your call:
- 500HP Hot Rod Version: Perfect for street cruisers who want big horsepower without sacrificing smooth drivability. It’s balanced, efficient, and tuned for builders who demand power without giving up daily-driver manners.
- 560HP Extreme Version: Crank it up to 11. This version brings a rowdier camshaft and aggressive tuning to pump out 560 horsepower. It’s the engine for hot rodders who want to dominate the boulevard and be the showstopper that leaves everyone talking.
Built Tough, Built Right
Both the Hot Rod and Extreme versions share the same bulletproof base: a 408-cubic-inch stroker built for punishment. Inside, the 4340 forged crankshaft, H-beam rods, and Icon forged pistons form a fully forged rotating assembly designed to handle all the abuse you can throw at it. Smeding’s CNC-ported 11° LS3 heads top it off, featuring 255cc intake runners and high-flow 2.165” valves for maximum airflow.
The 500HP Hot Rod version gets a custom hydraulic roller cam for smooth, street-friendly power, while the Extreme cranks it up with a rowdier grind to wring out every bit of performance. It’s the same sturdy foundation, just tuned to your style.
Modern Power with Classic DNA
Smeding’s 408 LS3 engines don’t just pack power—they bring hot rods into the 21st century. Both versions feature Edelbrock’s Pro-Flo 4 EFI system: a sequential port injection setup that’s dyno-tuned and ready to go out of the box. Say goodbye to fiddling with carbs or throttle-body systems. With Pro-Flo 4, you get modern drivability and efficiency in a system even first-time builders can install.
Fully Turnkey, Hassle-Free Installation
Smeding delivers more than an engine—they deliver a complete solution. Every 408 LS3 comes pre-fitted with the Holley Mid-Mount serpentine system, including an LT1-style water pump, 1-wire alternator, SD7 A/C compressor, and Type II power steering. No custom brackets. No guesswork. Just drop it in, bolt it up, and fire it.
Power and Peace of Mind
These engines don’t just make dyno numbers—they’re built to last. Backed by a 3-year, unlimited-mile warranty, Smeding’s 408 LS3 packages give you the confidence that comes with unmatched engineering and testing.
Which One Fits Your Build?
The 408” LS3 Hot Rod offers 500 horsepower with smooth drivability, ideal for builders who want muscle without compromises. The 408” LS3 Extreme adds an extra 60 ponies and plenty of attitude for those who demand more power and performance.
Your Hot Rod Deserves This Engine
Why settle for almost right? The 408” LS3 from Smeding Performance is a turnkey solution that takes your build from good to legendary. Whether you go for the 500HP Hot Rod version or the 560HP Extreme, this is the engine to make your hot rod unforgettable.
Don’t just build a car. Build a legacy. Drop in a Smeding 408 LS3 and let the horsepower do the talking.
Tech Specs
• Block: Smeding Heavy Duty 6 Bolt Mains, 9.240″ Deck Height, 4.000″ Bore
.615”/.610” Lift, 229°/232° Duration @ .050” (Hot Rod)
• Serpentine Kit: Holley Mid-Mount w/ A/C – Installed
• Torque Converter:
1,800-2,200rpm Stall Recommended (Hot Rod)
2,200-2,600rpm Stall Recommended (Extreme)
Ready to take your hot rod to the next level?
Don’t wait any longer—head over to the Smeding Performance website now and explore the full lineup of 408” LS3 engines. Whether you’re after a reliable 500HP cruiser or a wild 560HP Extreme, Smeding has the perfect turnkey solution for your build. With unbeatable performance, reliability, a hassle-free installation, and a 3-year, unlimited mile warranty, you can trust that your engine will perform at its best for the long haul. It’s time to make your engine swap easier and more powerful than ever. Visit SmedingPerformance.com today and start building your legend!

