Did you read the latest Wheels magazine? January 2010 edition includes a special section on the history of the lovely V8 engine that we know and love today. I will share some of the high-lights the magazine as well as my personal comments, so read on …
Automotive Vee Eight as we know it was born with our friends the arrival of Henry Ford with a flat-topped Vee ‘L-head’ eight 1932. We must remember that it was responsible for discovering eight cylinder engine in V format as we know and love. But he is responsible for ensuring its availability to the host, that is, people like you and me! That’s pretty basic and simple, no complex overhead valves or similar, hence the term ‘Flathead’.
A company called Duesenberg, back in the 20s get straight 8 cylinder engine and this is probably the first mass-produced eight-cylinder automotive engine (it also includes steps luxury and multi-valve overhead!). Unfortunately the company has survived the test of time.
Some suggest that the ‘live’ longest V8 engine V8 friend of British-owned Rolls-Royce and Bentley 6.75-liter. Based on the design of its American release in 1959 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud (such as one with a 6.2-liter OHV V and 90-degree angle). Enlarged then current size of 6.75 liters is kept in Bentley production at the moment of inspiration.
Of course, technology has made it possible to develop the V8 just like all automotive creature and now we have a V8 in every possible location of the automotive spectrum. Usually limited only by our imagination (and wallets). Turbocharging / supercharging, injection, direct mulit-variable valve technology and massaging the engine ancillaries are all available in the Ferrari for you to grow your home or moderate Falcon Commodore.
All this of course means that you can be good for the environment and has a V8. I drive my daughter 350k for agriculture of the Kwinana south of Perth and get the best of 11l/100kms cruising at 110 with improved safety and handling and braking capacity to safely pass slower vehicles. So, at least until V8 2028. Enjoy your V8!
Tags: Automotive Engineering
