The 'V' denotes the arrangement of the cylinders which are, facing the front of the engine, in a 'V' configuration. Two on the right and two on the left (or three if it's a V6).

A straight (in line) four, six or (even eight) will have the cylinders in a line.

The difference between the two is that, all things being equal, the V6 will (probably) be of a larger capacity, more powerful....and considerably more fuel hungry.

Making sure your engine goes...

What is a Head Gasket and what is its Purpose?

              A head gasket is a gasket that sits between the engine block and the cylinder head in an internal combustion engine. The purpose of the head gasket is to create a seal for the cylinders to provide the most compression and to help prevent the engine coolant or engine oil from leaking into the cylinders. It is the most important sealing application in any engine. Because it is part of the combustion chamber, it has the same streng...