The author is wrong on the V8. It isn’t about cylinders; it is about HP and reliability. The straight six, with dual OHC, is a simpler, more reliable, and lighter setup with approximately the same HP to displacement ratio.
Only two cams are needed, not four.
Only one timing chain is needed, not two
The issue of the cylinder’s fuel mixture leaning out on old sixes is fixed with fuel injection.
The engine is lighter.
Given the tech in engines today, a straight six is a good option.
Agreed, and would say further that a six has always been a favorite for me. I do like the power (torque) of a V-8, but the feel and sound of a high performance six is wonderful. They can also be beautiful to look at, as with the old Jaguars, Astons, etc.
Also wrong on the last date of the Caravan. I think it was more like 2017.
It's not simpler. The 3.0L I6 needs a turbo to make the equivalent power of the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi V8s. Furthermore, the Hemi did not have four cams and two timing chains. They have a single cam (albeit a VVT) and one timing chain.
And not only are OHV V8s the best sounding engines out there, they also have the ultimate packaging density. They are very compact squares and fit under short and low hoods that I6s could only dream of.
A straight 6 has perfect primary and secondary balance. They used to be standard engines in American cars. Now it’s all V6s. Terrible balance. And their exhaust sound is awful.
Bring back the slant six. I have one in my 1982 Power Ram, and in 1st gear I can pull tree stumps with that truck.
Straight sixes are inherently balanced. No balance shafts like a v6. With dual turbo can easily get up to 550hp. Larger than Mercedes.
Mercedes killer if decked out luxuriously, and smooth handling.