Swapping a GM LS-series V8 into a chassis that did not originally have one. The universal V8 swap because the engines are cheap, light, and powerful.
LS swap is fitting a General Motors LS-series V8 (LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LS7, LSx) into a chassis that did not originally have one. The LS family launched in 1997 in the C5 Corvette and quickly became the universal V8 swap engine because of three factors: high availability and low cost from junked Camaros, Trans Ams, GTOs, trucks, and SUVs; relatively light weight (around 450 to 500 pounds); and strong aftermarket support.
LS swaps appear in everything: BMW E30s and E46s, Datsun 240Zs, Toyota Tacomas, Land Rover Defenders, Mazda Miatas, Jeep Wranglers, vintage trucks of every make, even Ferraris (rare but documented). The phrase "LS everything" became a meme in the 2010s and remains accurate.
A basic LS swap (LS1 or LS3 with stock cam and bolt-ons) typically makes 400 to 500 horsepower naturally aspirated. With forced induction or built-up internal modifications, LS-based engines have made well over 2,000 horsepower in extreme drag racing applications. The platform is essentially a blank canvas for power-building.