What are the advantages, other than size, of a "V" configured engine over an "inline" one?

Question

BMW makes a straight 6 for the 3-series, so if there was a performance advantage to the "V" I'm sure they, of all companies, would use it.

I once read that a V provides more torque.

Answer 1

I have heard that an inline six can give more torque but won't rev as high, but a v6 can rev higher and give more horse power

Answer 2

The configuration isn't as important as the was the engine was designed. The rule of thumb is however, V's provide better torque, where as inlines provide higher RPM's and then you have half-breed engines like the VR6 which combines both the V and inline config to get the best fo both worlds! The big thing is engine design is the over-all efficiency of the motor... which is why I drive a 1.8T.... BOOST BABY!!!

-Nick-

Answer 3

The advantages are strictly in engine space and ease of servicing. The inline enging has much more torque because energy is not wasted in mechanical linkages, and it also produces more horsepower for the same reason.

Answer 4

V's have slightly better thermal efficiency. The cranks and cams are less prone to twist under high load/RPM conditions. Oil and water circulation are improved due to the shorter blocks.

Inline OHC designs are cheaper to manufacture than V OHC's. Manifold design is also easier. Service access is usually better. One added point: an inline 6 is naturally balanced, and doesn't require counterweights on the cranks.

Answer 5

inline 6 engines are naturally smoother then v 6 engines because everything is rotating in the same plane. one of the problems with an inline engine is the longer crankshaft required, so unless it is supported by a bearing between every cylinder it is weaker. the shorter crankshaft in a v engine is stronger. most v engine also require balancing shafts that increase the the rotating mass so they do not rev as smoothly or as quickly.

Answer 6

actually inline motors can produce tremendous power and torque. nissan skyline rb 26dett, toyota supra 2jzgtte, 300 c.i.d ford. old 280zx motors are also inline. v motors are more compact and save some space. all motors require counterweights. v motors do not produce more power. all of your six cylinder super cars are all inline like the cars listed above.

Answer 7

an inline generally makes more power than a "V", but is harder to put in a car (too long). many old straight 6's could outrun V-8's. "v" works good for 8 cyl's, but straight or flat (opposed) works better for 6's and 4's.

Answer 8

Report me if you like for being a *****, I officially don't care but Nateena is a bloody liar. 4% of her answers are best answers. Never been given a best answer? Take a long walk off a short cliff you lying rat. But that was a fairly good joke. Didn't make me laugh but it was original.

Answer 9

v engine has high end torque while inline has low end torque and inline engines are more reliable better balance

Answer 10

inline or straight engines are more fuel efficient and not as heavy with the horsepower...i.e. eco boxes...most Euro and Asian made compacts use those engines...Americans adopted them after the late 70's to combat the fuel crisis