Ecoboost vs. V8 - Can you explain?

JRscooby wrote:

ShinerBock wrote:

JRscooby wrote:
Where is it written that gas engines must be V whatever? What would happen if they put modern fuel and spark control, and a turbo on a 5 L I 6?

They probably don't do it because of the cost associated with re-engineering a whole new motor/supporting systems and completely re-tooling the factories. It is much easier and more cost effect to re-scale and take away cylinders for various displacement sizes of a certain block configuration versus having two block configurations.

Cost associated with re-engineering a whole new motor/supporting systems and completely re-tooling the factories? IMHO, they did that.
Had a engine that was pretty cheap to run, and real dependable back when using points and carb. Instead of putting Fuel Injection on that when needed to clean the exhaust everything had to go V. Ford put throttle body on the 302 V8, and made big improvement in power and economy. Why not the 300 inch 6? If they had, then would not take much to add the turbo

It is not just about re-engineering an engine. You have to re-engineer everything that is attached to it as well like accersory drives, engine mounts and so on. Inline engines are also longer so you have re-engineer the cooling system too.

Then there is the re-tooling of the factories that are based on Ford's modular engine designs and other V engines. If you have ever been in an engine factory with all sorts of specialized equipment, tools, and jigs just for one engine configuration, then you know how much of an undertaking it would be to change all of them.

Not saying it can't be done, and would in fact love to see an inline 6 Ecoboost engine. I am just saying that the reason why they probably didn't go that route is the added cost versus just re-utilizing what they already have.