The High Output 2.3 L LG0 was rated at 180 hp (130 kW) from 1989 to 1992, 175 hp (130 kW) in 1993 and 170 hp (130 kW) in 1994; both the 1993 and 1994 power reductions were a direct result of the first two rounds of the Quad4's NVH reductions; both being exhaust port size reductions. Changes that differentiated the LG0 from the LD2 engine were more aggressive camshafts and an extra half point of compression; 9.5:1 to 10.0:1. These engines were recommended to run exclusively on premium fuel of 91 octane rating or higher due to the compression ratio.
The High Output engine was introduced with both a special production run of 200 Cutlass Calais International Series coupes, as well as 200 Grand Am SE coupes — all featuring Bright Red paint, and grey interiors. The LG0 engine was only available with the heavy-duty (for its time) Getrag designed HM-282/NVG-T550 five-speed transmissions.
From 1989 to 2009, the Quad 4 held the title of being General Motors most powerful naturally aspirated regular production four-cylinder engine. Only recently was the LG0's 180 bhp (130 kW) rating eclipsed when the 2010 model year 2.4 L Ecotec LAF launched in the Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Equinox. The LAF has a rated output of 182 hp (136 kW) but does so with 11.4:1 compression ratio, gasoline direct injection and variable valve timing.
There was a limited production version of the LG0 engine offered in select Oldsmobiles which used the designation W41 (listed below).
LG0 applications:
- 1990–1993 Chevrolet Beretta GTZ
- 1994 Chevrolet Beretta Z26
- 1989–1991 Pontiac Grand Am SE
- 1990–1991 Pontiac Grand Am LE with "Sport Performance Package" (RPO: W32)
- 1992–1994 Pontiac Grand Am GT
- 1989–1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais International Series
- 1992–1994 Oldsmobile Achieva SC
- 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme International Series
Read more about this topic: GM Quad-4 Engine