Differential (And Which is Better)

You will need to choose between a V6 or V8 engine when you buy a car. Both motors are similar, but there are important differences. The engines will work in the exact same manner, using gasoline to ignite inside.

Explosions within the engine's cylinders produce rotational motion, which transforms the engine into an engine that can drive the vehicle.

However, that’s where the similarities between the two engines end. To see the differences between V6 and V8 engines, we will take a close look to determine which engine is more efficient.

It is the engine's number of cylinders, the main difference between V6 engines and V8 that makes the difference. This affects performance as well as fuel consumption. Although the V8 is more powerful, it consumes more fuel than the V6.

Although this may be the end of it, there are many more. Continue reading for all the details!

What is the ‘V’ in Engine Terminology?

By creating different sizes and numbers of cylinders, auto manufacturers make many kinds of engine. The way the cylinders are designed in an engine can be in a ‘V’ shape, which is why they are called V6 and V8 engines. You will see the V-type engine's cylinders divided into two equal rows. 

Two rows will contain three cylinders in the V6 engine. The V8 has four cylinders per row. Both engine types have been designed to be balanced for the best performance. Because of their power, you can find one of them in your favourite sports car or pickup truck. 

Related: Long Vs Short Block Engine

Comparison of V6 and V8 Engines

There are many benefits to buying a car with a V6 engine. 

• Similar Horsepower
• It is good to have good towing capability
• Better Handling
• Energy efficient with more fuel
• Lower Cost

1. Similar Horsepower

Upgrading to a V8 engine from a V6 won’t make a dramatic difference in horsepower. An example: A 2021 Ford F-150 powered by a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 generates 325 horsepower while the V8 version only produces 400 horsepower. 

Although it is an increase in price, most people will not find the extra cost worth it. The V6 will provide enough power for everyday driving. The V6 is also smaller and lighter than the traditional 4-cylinder, but offers much more power. 

2. It is good to have good towing capability

It’s become clear that modern vehicles do not need to have a powerful V8 engine to tow a lot. The 2021 Ford Expedition features a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that can tow 9,300 pounds. 

This rating is the highest in its class and all this without using a V8. You also can’t find the same type of towing capacity out of a 4-cylinder engine. 

3. Better Handling

The V6 engine is lighter than the V8. It does provide more stability but you'll notice an increase in speed when turning and turning around curves, corners, or turns. Two fewer cylinders means you can get the performance that you want without having to add mass. 

The V8 might drift more in a turn than the V6 engine, but the V6 is able to corner quickly. This feature is important whether you're driving down country roads in a sports car, or taking your kids to school in a large SUV. 

4. Energy efficient with more fuel

Most V6 engines burn less fuel than larger V8s. You will save fuel and spend less at the pump.

This is the case again with 2021 Ford F-150. This engine's EcoBoost V6 is rated at 20/26 miles per gallon, while its larger counterpart V8 achieves 17/24. 

5. Lower Cost

You will save fuel and also spend less on a V6-powered car. Because it costs less to make, a V6 engine will usually have a starting price that is lower than a car powered by a V8. 

Maintenance costs are also reduced. There are fewer parts that you need to replace. 

Comparison of V8 and V6 Engines

The V8 offers many advantages over the V6.

• Limits on Higher Power
• Better Acceleration & Speed
• The Best For Hauling

1. Limits on Higher Power

Even though we’ve shown that many of the modern V6 engines can provide nearly the same amount of power as the V8, they can’t compete with the maximum capacity of the larger engine. The V8 engine has the best power.

As an example, take the HEMI High Output Hellcat Redeye V8 engine with 797 horsepower. This power is beyond what any V6 engine could match. 

2. Better Acceleration & Speed

It was designed to be pushed. The V8 is designed to be pushed. You will get a fast response from the accelerator and all the power you want.

It will not only have a greater top speed than the comparable V6 engine, but also be more capable of producing faster acceleration times. Example: The 2021 Chevy Chevy Camaro's 3.6-liter V6 can reach 0-60 in 5.4 seconds, while its supercharged, 6.2-liter V8 has a time of 3.5-60 seconds. 

3. The Best For Hauling

The V8 engine is better suited for heavy hauling. It’s meant to hold heavy loads with ease.

The V8 engine won’t be as strained as the V6 engine when the cargo hold is full. You will notice V8 engines have higher payload capacities than V6 engines, even with V6 upgrade. 

Which is better V6 or V8?

You may already be aware of which one is right for you, after comparing the benefits and drawbacks of each engine. You must decide what your car will be used for to determine which engine is best for you. 

The V6 may be the best choice if you are looking for the most affordable engine and superior handling. You can also save on fuel costs. If you intend to perform a lot more heavy-duty hauling, though, the V8 may be better. Plus, it’s an ideal choice if you are looking for the maximum speed in your sports car and aren’t worried about the price.