The LS-series of V8 engines are often touted as the successor to the time-tested small block Chevy 350. That’s because LS engines, like the 350 before it, are starting to pop up everywhere. And we’re not just talking about replacing an old SBC with a modern LS1; LSx engines can be found in everything from 80’s imports to dune buggies, like the one in this following video (with a nod to Jalopnik for bringing it to our attention.)

The LS engine is an obvious choice, as making over 1,000 horsepower just ain’t no big thang if you know what you’re doing. And Nelson Racing Engines certainly knows what they are doing when it comes to making big power V8’s. But does a dune buggy really need 1,800 horsepower?

Yes, apparently it does. This custom dune buggy is all business, with seating for four and a 427 LS V8 engine sitting in a frame at the rear. This ain’t just any 427 engine though; it’s been twin turbocharged and cranks out all that horsepower in a buggy that probably doesn’t weight much more than 1,800 pounds. Not that it matters, but having the engine at the rear also helps this dune buggy lift the nose almost straight in the air. Because who doesn’t want to do wheelies in a dune buggy?

That makes for a pretty wild ride, and the camera tells the story as this buggy bombs around the California desert. The passengers all seem to be enjoying the ride, especially one young lady who can’t stop laughing. That’s a better reaction than crying for sure, though we wouldn’t blame you for shedding a few tears of joy after getting out of this wild ride in one piece.