During the most recent Barrett-Jackson Auction, GM Performance Parts offered the first production LSX crate engine for public sale. Besides promoting the latest GM crate engine, the auction of the LSX454R engine was designed to benefit a worthy cause that’s appropriate for the “Heartbeat of America.” According to GM News, the proceeds were presented to the American Heart Association at the Go Red for Women Luncheon at the MGM Grand in Detroit on February 24^th, 2011.

Dr. Jamie Meyer, product integration manager for GMPP, had the honor of presenting the funds and was also a speaker at the event. Dr. Meyer has a Ph.D. with honors from the State University of New York and has made innovations in research designed to combat heart disease.

Barrett-Jackson attracts enthusiasts from across the country, most of whom have extensive collections of classic cars and are always seeking new additions to their fleet. Greg Mauzy of Texas is just this sort of collector, and when he was presented with the opportunity to own the first production LSX454R engine, it was just too tempting. With the proceeds of the engine benefiting the American Heart Association, whose cause is close to Mauzy’s own heart, it became a must-have item.

Once the engine rolled out on the bright orange cart, bidders were in awe of the latest high-performance creation from GM. In the end, Mauzy went home with the engine after placing the winning bid of $67,000. The American Heart Association will utilize the funds for research, education and awareness programs, which will save lives.