This gives it a low center of gravity. A V engine is a compromise between the two. It tends to be more cubical in shape. There can be differences in the amount of metal required in the block, meaning that one type might be lighter than the other. There can also be cost differences during manufacture.
Designers choose among a number of variables when deciding which configuration to use in a car.
Variables include cost, space available under the hood, position requirements, existing manufacturing facilities, power to weight ratio, etc. People sometimes get religious about engine configuration. If there are some good comments I will publish them next week. Inc. All rights reserved. Please Click Here for a complete list of previously answered questions.