V4 vs. Inline 4 engine: What's the difference?

If you're looking to buy an engine for your car, understanding the key differences between a V4 engine vs Inline 4 engine can help you make an informed choice. The primary distinction lies in their cylinder arrangement—V4 engines have cylinders positioned in a ‘V’ shape, while inline-4 engines align them in a straight row along the crankshaft.

Inline-4 engines are more common in cars due to their balance, compact design, and simplicity. On the other hand, motorcycles often use V4 engines, as their compact design allows for higher power output in limited space.

This blog delves deeper into the key differences between v4 vs inline 4.

What is a V4 engine?

The V4 engine has four cylinders arranged in a V-shape. It has two cylinder banks—each holding two cylinders. The V-twin has an excellent power delivery, spreading from low in the RPM range but may decline in the upper reaches of the tachometer.

Therefore, the V4 engine has a healthy spread of power and torque. Unlike the V-twin, it often spins faster, generating more power at a broader RPM range.

Advantages of V4 engine

The following are some advantages of the V4 engine:

• V4 engines are smoother, firm, and stronger than inline 4-cylinder engines.
• The V4s are highly efficient, with smaller, less wasteful dead spaces.
• The stronger and shorter crankshafts result in higher power generation. The crankshafts reduce the chances of torque twisting and boost the number of revolutions.
• The engine's 90° or 60° angle design significantly reduces vibrations.
• The crankcase allows an efficient air flow, minimising pumping losses, and enabling power to reach the wheels.
• The shorter engine makes packing easier.

What is the Inline 4 engine?

Also known as a 'straight-four', 'i4', and 'L4', the inline-four performance-oriented turbo engine dominates the racing world. Characterised by its four cylinders, it's an internal combustion engine with the cylinders arranged in a straight line or parallel on a single crankshaft.

The i4 functions on a four-stroke cycle, converting fuel into mechanical energy. This cycle ensures smooth engine operation, whether turbocharged or naturally aspirated. Diesel, gasoline, and natural gas can power the engine.

The engine has crankshaft layouts of either 180-degree (flat-plane) or 270-degree (cross-plane), producing the most power and torque in the high revving range. It can rev all up to 14,000 RPM.

A turbocharged inline-4 engine uses exhaust heat to power a turbine, forcing more air into the engine's combustion chamber. The additional air enables more fuel to burn, producing greater power output. Hence, the turbocharger allows the i4 engine to deliver higher performance while maintaining fuel efficiency and environmental benefits.

What are the advantages of Inline 4 engine?

The following are some advantages of the Inline 4 engine:

• Fuel efficient: Fewer cylinders operate with less fuel, improving fuel economy.
• Lower emissions: Compared to larger engines, the inline-4 is more eco-friendly.
• Lightweight: The inline-4 engine has one cylinder head, a simpler design, and is lighter than other engine types.
• Easy to maintain: The i4's straightforward design simplifies repairs, servicing, and upkeep.
• Powerful in performance: Turbocharging makes this engine a powerhouse, enabling it to perform far better than larger engines.
• Compact size: Cylinders have a linear arrangement, resulting in a smaller engine footprint that fits well into smaller cars.
• Good primary force balance: The cylinders' alternating order balances vibrations, leading to smoother operations.
• Lower manufacturing cost: Inline 4 is cheaper to produce compared to the more complex engine designs.

V4 vs. Inline 4 engine: Which is best

When it comes to the inline 4 engine vs v4, the V4 engine delivers better power. It's power-packed and has a shorter crankshaft, generating more power across a wider RPM range. 

However, V4 engines are more costly to produce and quite difficult to maintain, and with the rear cylinders positioned close to the rider, they can get really hot. This probably explains why the good old inline-4 still lives on.

The L4 engine is relatively cheaper to produce and easier to maintain. Therefore, some people, especially those who use their cars daily, still prefer the inline-4 engine due to better fuel efficiency.

Let’s understand this better through the comparison table below:

Conclusion

We cannot deny that the powerful V4 engine is more popular. Manufacturers use the engines to power the most remarkable racing motorcycles. However, the inline-4's cheaper production cost, better fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance still make it a timeless design.

While you make an informed decision about your engine choice, you need to take certain safety precautions to ensure your vehicle and engine’s longevity. Acquiring a comprehensive car insurance policy that offers coverage for accidents, theft, and other unpredicted road events is essential, giving you financial security whenever you are on the road.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.