Dumb ass question

[mini_ralf]

I've been attempting to explain to the missus different engine layouts and configurations and although I've had some success have bumped into small problem which I can't seem to resolve.

Why do "V" engines seem to be the engine type of choice for performance cars and race cars? What makes a V so special over say a straight or boxer engine. Ok so I realise that the 911 & Scoobys (both considered racey in different ways) use a boxer rather than a V but still can't see what's so special about a V.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[cossiemetro]

they are generally built stronger and as they say THERE AIN'T NO SUBSTITUTE FOR CUBIC INCH'S

[GreenV8S]

They can be made very compact (for a given capacity) which gives packaging advantages.

[mini_ralf]

GreenV8S said:

They can be made very compact (for a given capacity) which gives packaging advantages.

So by using a V you can essentially double up on the number of cylinders and use only slightly more space than say a straight or flat configuration. Makes sense. Thank you!

[HiRich]

GreenV8S said:

They can be made very compact (for a given capacity) which gives packaging advantages.

A slightly more technical answer might be:
1) For a performance engine you are probably looking at a cylinder size of 300-350cc.

2) Your two main considerations are:
- Packaging: maybe in terms of wheelbase; passenger space; not compromising suspension design, etc.
- (If you are serious) keeping your centre of gravity low.
Two banks of cylinders can be accommodated on a significantly shorter crank than a single bank. So you can squeeze more engine into a more compact space (for many car layouts, at least). Also, the structure of the engine is likely to be stiffer by design, which may allow you to save weight by eliminating stiffeners and shaving wall thicknesses.
A V will also be squatter = less metal up top. This may aid the bonnet line, it should also lower the CoG
Boxers and flat V's are obviously even lower. However you reach a point where the exhausts poke beneath the sump - so you have to lift the whole engine higher. IIRC the Ferrari BBs and original Testarossa suffered some interesting weight transfer issues on the limit precisely because of this.

There are other issues, but ultimately, you can squeeze an awful lot of engine into a fixed space with a V. That may not correct if you are using a small transvers engine (Mini, Elise), but go much bigger and the benefits build up rapidly.

[combemarshal]

Go for a Wankle!!

[ELAN+2]

combemarshal said:

Go for a Wankle!!

Wankel?

[combemarshal]

However you spell it!
Rotary engine, as found in rx7's & rx8's!