V-Shaped Cylinder Block
A V-8 engine is a special type of engine block design that has all of its cylinders arranged in a "V" shape. Each side of the letter "V" represents each side of a V-8 engine; the bottom of the letter "V" represents the bottom of a V-8 engine, the portion of the engine that houses the crankshaft.
8 Engine Cylinders
A V-8 engine has 8 cylinders. Each cylinder houses 1 engine piston; each engine piston is controlled by the engine crankshfat. All 8 engine cylinders are positioned at an angle to form the "V" shape of a V-8 engine.
4 Cylinders on Each Side
A V-8 engine has 4 engine cylinders on each side of the engine. Each set of 4 engine cylinders represent one side of the "V" shape of a V-8 engine.
Cast Iron Block
The majority of V-8 engines are made of solid cast iron steel, a very strong and durable form of steel that is highly resistant to breakage and/or damage and is very tolerant of excessive engine operating temperatures. The V-8 engine design is a very popular engine among high performance enthusiasts due to its durability and structural soundness.
Sideways Engine Installation
A V-8 engine, unlike most newer car engine designs, is installed in a sideways position in a car. In this position, each set of 4 engine cylinders runs parallel to the car fenders. This type of engine installation is necessary due to a V-8 engine's size and also to make engine assembly easier.
