What are the advantages of inline engines?

[LeColin]

The advantages of inline engines are that the cylinders are arranged in a straight line, with a simple structure for the cylinder block, cylinder head, and crankshaft, low manufacturing costs, good low-speed torque characteristics, low fuel consumption, and compact size, making them widely used. Most engines with fewer than 5 cylinders are arranged in an inline configuration, and now a few 6-cylinder engines also use this arrangement. In the past, there were even inline 8-cylinder engines. Gasoline engines below 1 liter often use an inline 3-cylinder configuration, those between 1 and 2.5 liters typically use an inline 4-cylinder, and a few use an inline 5-cylinder, though achieving dynamic balance is more challenging. Some four-wheel-drive vehicles use an inline 6-cylinder engine because of its narrow width, allowing space for turbochargers and other equipment. The inline 6-cylinder configuration offers better dynamic balance and relatively lower vibration, making it popular in many mid-range and luxury cars.