What is the difference between a W12 engine and a V12 engine?
1 Answers
W12 engines are smaller in size compared to V12 engines, allowing for more cylinders and a larger displacement. However, V12 engines produce less noise than W12 engines. The W12 is more of a 'long-distance runner,' but under extreme conditions, it tends to be noisier than the V12. Below is an introduction to V-type and W-type engines: V-type engines: Common V-type engines include V6, V8, V10, and V12, but there are also others like V3, V5, and V16. As the name suggests, the cylinders in a V-type engine are arranged in a V-shape, typically at a 90-degree angle, which helps to best counteract operational vibrations and enhance stability. However, angles like 75 degrees and 72 degrees also exist. The advantages of V-type engines include stable operation (especially for V6, V8, and V12) and space efficiency. The disadvantages are their complex structure, which makes maintenance and repairs more challenging, and their higher manufacturing costs. W-type engines: Strictly speaking, W-type engines are a variation of V-type engines. They further divide the cylinders on both sides of the V-type engine into two groups, forming a 'W' shape when viewed from the side, hence the name. Essentially, a W12 engine is made by combining two V6 engines. The advantages of W-type engines include their compact structure, ease of arrangement, and optimization of engine compartment space. The downside is their overly complex structure.
