V16

V16 refers to a sixteen-cylinder piston engine with two banks of eight cylinders arranged in a V configuration. The arrangement is used in automotive, marine, and stationary power applications. The V angle is commonly between 60 and 90 degrees to balance the crankshaft and reduce vibration. V16 engines typically feature large displacement, many moving parts, and high torque at low rpm, which yields smooth operation but also high weight, fuel consumption, and maintenance complexity.

In automotive history, V16 engines gained prominence in luxury and performance cars during the early to mid-20th century. They offered refined powertrains for large sedans and touring cars and were prized for quiet operation on long cruises. Production was limited, and most manufacturers eventually replaced V16s with smaller configurations such as V12s and V8s after World War II. In modern times, V16s survive mainly in classic car collections, museum displays, and a few limited-production or custom vehicles, as well as certain marine and stationary power applications where a compact multi-cylinder package is less critical.

Notable historical examples include the Cadillac V-16 and Packard V-16, which powered luxury models in the 1930s. Some European marques also developed or experimented with V16 designs. Today the V16 is largely regarded as a historical engineering milestone, illustrating the era’s pursuit of power and smoothness in the age of large-capacity engines.