jasone36

So the forum seems quiet, so to spring up some conversation I am wondering if V8 engines typically last longer than V4 or V6 engines?

My guess is that they may last longer because the car is constantly running at lower RPMs when compared to a V4 or V8 at the same speeds.

Any ideas?

JerryB

Hi jasone,

I'm only a former shade-tree mechanic but I have discussed a similar question with my mechanics.

IMO given everything being equal, they will last just as long. As to the RPM for a given speed, that is an issue as to what the rear differential ratio is; and, of course, if there is any type of 'overdrive' in top gear.

And where is this V-4 that you speak of?

Just my $0.02, it is worth what you paid for it.

JerryBaumchen

GR6RR

Version 4, duh

mandyfig

Hello Jerry and Jasone,

Long time no talk Jerry.

If I may offer my opinion on the V8 and V6 engine performance.

Assuming we have a car with the same weight, one having a V6 and the other a V8 engine.

Assuming both engines are designed with the same steel components within the engine, lubrication design is equal on both.

Assuming both engines are relatively equal in heat dissipation/recovery capability and both cars have the same coefficient of drag.

The car with the engine running at a lower RPM (the V8) to deliver the same HP output will outlast the V6 that runs at a higher RPM in terms of wear and tear,

Outlast means probably a higher mileage for the V8 before a reconditioning is required.

JM2C.

Mandy

jzwu

This thinking seems to be sound.

What I was told long time ago was that assuming for exactly the same car a bigger engine will need to do less work to reach, say 100k miles than a smaller engine. Therefore, a bigger engine will last longer, i.e., run more miles for the same car.

Of course, a v8 on a huge truck won't be the same. Another example is motorcycle engines, particularly small displacement ones, usually won't last to 100k miles.

KaiserSea1

the candle that burns twice as bright burns half as long

Justin2JZ

Okay its bugging me. OP, its I4 not V4.

JohnnyCake

You've never owned a Saab96?

toxic

With all of the parts and components that can go wrong in a motor, I feel that if maintained equally they will last the same. I drive my vehicles a long time but I keep them well maintained and have not had any major engine failure on any of them no matter the size. Maintenance is the key to all things mechanical especially car engines. Little rundown on what I have driven off the top of my head....

78 Ford LTD V8- 200K
94 Honda 4cyl- 230k
93Jeep Wrangler HO-I6- 247k (still driving as a commuter)
96 Ford Explorer V8-190k
04 Chevy 3/4 ton V8-110K (still driving)
08 Chevy Equinox Sport 6cyl- 90k (wife's car)
02 430 94k-Just getting broke in!!LOL!!

TOXIC

Justin2JZ

You really think the OP is talking about a about actual V4?