V8 Engine as the Ultimate Option in Automobile Engine Production
Just like the V10, V8 Engine also had its peak period in the automobile industry. This also best served as the leading power plant for the American automobiles. This is also after the development of the flathead V8 engine by the Ford Motor Company with its Ford Coupes.
There was also a time when the V8 engines and the American cars became associated with each other. But, that time has finally ended. And the use of these engines today is only limited to people who want for high-performance cars. This includes the application on vehicles like vintage cars, racing cars, powerful muscle cars, large SUVs and other performance-oriented cars.
The Beginning
It was in 1902 when the first patent on the V8 engine was made by the Frenchman Leon Levavasseur. The engine features 50-horsepower. However, its initial application was not intended for automobiles. This is even better for aircraft and boats.
In fact, it was only in 1914 when the engine was first used in the American cars, specifically the Cadillac. At the time, V8 became recognized for its ability to go fast and pull heavy loads. The engine was also known for its ability to cover not only those long distances at higher speeds. This is mainly the reason why the use of the engine in American vehicles lasts for several decades.
However, there is one significant downside to the V8 Engine. It is not fuel efficient. In this world that is more concerned on fuel efficiency, V8 may not prove to be a good option. It was further replaced by even smaller engines. The limited use of the engine today is also associated in terms of power.
The V8 Engines features two banks of 4 cylinders and a good design that help balance the banks. As per this balanced design, this allows the engine to operate smoothly with lower vibrations.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Aside from the engine’s downside of fuel inefficiency, it also weighs more that adds up to the vehicle’s weight and fuel consumption. The engine comes with even more essential moving parts. These simply add up to the engine’s rotational inertia and friction.
V8 Engine is also flexible. This only means that it can be large or even more compact that depend on its purpose. Another example of this characteristic is that it serves well in smaller duplication. This is just like in sports coupe. This serves as an ideal option for larger displacements such as in cargo-carrying pick-up trucks for maximum torque.
The engine runs smoothly as well. This is simply a benefit that is most recognized in all V-type configurations. This is also an asset to luxury cars. Due to this reason, the engine is able to produce power strokes that occur closer together. This is also proven helpful in minimizing vibration.
The smoothness in operation also reduces the stress placed on the engine. This allows for better engine performance. Most importantly, the V8 Engine boasts its balance of efficiency and performance. It is also due to its medium configuration. This balance of efficiency and performance means that consumers can enjoy a small and light engine that offers balanced torque and horsepower.
