An engine is classified as a V-type if there are two banks of cylinders attached to a single crankshaft. The cylinders are usually positioned at either 90 or 60 degree angles from each other. This block is shorter in length and height than a corresponding inline block of the same cylinder count and displacement. This means that the overall hood area of the car can be smaller or substituted for more passenger or storage area. Because these engines use a short, strong crankshaft they are better suited to tolerating higher rotational speeds and higher torsional stresses.

Inline engines consist of cylinders placed in a single bank one after another. These engines often offer more torque and a smother power delivery than a v-type due to the larger block and distance between cylinders. They are longer in length and height but are narrower in width than v-types.