Anniversary 427 Big Block serial #001 up for auction.

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.