V8s

V8s refer to V8 engines, eight cylinders arranged in two banks of four that share a common crankshaft. The 90-degree V8 is the most common configuration, chosen for good primary balance and a compact width, enabling use in passenger cars, trucks, and performance models.

Key design features include the valvetrain (OHV or DOHC), cylinder displacement, and crankshaft layout. Early V8s used side-valve or overhead valve designs. Modern units commonly employ DOHC with four valves per cylinder and variable timing. Most V8s are naturally aspirated, but many use turbochargers or superchargers to boost power. Firing order and balance depend on the crank design: cross-plane cranks yield smooth operation and a distinctive exhaust note, while flat-plane cranks allow higher revs but require additional balancing measures.

Pros and cons: V8s deliver strong low-end torque and high peak power in a relatively compact form, but are heavier and less fuel-efficient than smaller engines or inline-sixes. Modern technologies such as direct injection, cylinder deactivation, and turbocharging have improved efficiency in some applications.

History: The first mass-produced V8 appeared in the 1910s, with Cadillac and other American brands popularizing the layout in the mid-20th century. Over time, V8s became standard in many large cars and performance models, with notable families such as GM’s small-block and Ford’s modular engines.

Modern practice: V8s remain common in high-performance and large vehicles, though market trends toward downsized engines and electrification have reduced their prevalence in some segments. They are typically paired with automatic transmissions and, in performance cars, with advanced exhaust and suspension systems to optimize dynamics.