Why has Pontiac now gone to the more powerful yet smaller 3.6 eng as an option over the 3.9 eng. ? Is the 3.6 a better design? I can't find any technical info on this engine...is it a new redesigned engine or a rehash? Why is GM so fast to change engines in this car so fast after only 1.5 years. Anyone know the scoop on the 3.6?
Why not? The 3.6 is a beautiful little engine. DOHC with variable valve timing, all aluminum engine, very similar overall design to the Northstar. Of course, there isn't anything really wrong with the
3.9 either. It looks like a 3.4 but there are some major differences. The 3.6 has been around in Caddy's for a couple of years.Ian
Australian Holden Commodores use these engines, in RWD form, and also have for a few years. There are two versions offered, both 3.6, with 180 or 195 KW, the more powerful version has variable valve timing on both inlet & exhaust, while the base model just has variable inlet timing. The Pontiac web site specs this motor as 188KW (252Hp). Rougly mid way between the two Holden specs. Feedback I have heard is that the 195KW version has a sportier feel, and sounds better, more improvement than the numbers would indicate.
Any idea which motor the G6 is using? The 195KW version with a crappy exhaust & stricter emission requirements, or the 180KW with a better exhaust & tweaked a little?
Either way, IMHO it's as much HP as you would want to put to the ground through the front wheels on a car that size.
The Australian Commodores are bigger & RWD.
Then what will happen to the 3.9?...not that I would miss it...I thought it was a big lug anyway...almost 4 litres and bearily putting out 250hp, and only putting out 227hp in the G6 convertible. I say good riddance if they are all replaced with the 3.6. Smaller more compact, better gas mileage and more powerful. If pontiac gets around to to putting one in the G6 GTP convertible I may very well get one. I can't tolerate only 227 measly horses out of a big 3.9.
The 3.9 is supposed to be the low priced engine, although it does have variable valve timing and a variable length intake manifold. I'm not sure they really need it, and I suppose they don't need it if it fails to be econoimcal. It might go away at any time.
I hope the time will be sooner than later.
Den...dat;s what I'm talk'n bout!
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