What is the 3.2L I6 Engine in Forza Games?
The 3.2L I6 is a 3.2 liter naturally aspirated straight-6 cylinder engine that serves as a powerful swap option in Forza Motorsport and Horizon titles. Offering a unique blend of smooth power and high torque in a lightweight package, it‘s a compelling alternative to 6-cylinder V configurations or large displacement V8s.
A Closer Look at the 3.2L I6
Let‘s break down what defines this mighty inline engine:
- Displacement: 3.2 liters
- Layout: Straight-6 (I6)
- Induction: Naturally aspirated (although turbo options exist)
- Power: 300-400 horsepower
- Torque: 280-350 lb-ft
The 3.2 liter displacement strikes a nice balance – smaller than most V8s for lightness and efficiency, but bigger than I4s or I6s for impressive thrust. Combined with the innately smooth nature of a straight-6 design, the engine excels at building progressive power through the rev range.
Turbocharging takes things to another level, pushing output towards 400+ horsepower territory while significantly fattening up the torque curve.
Ideal For: Smooth Power Seekers
The 3.2L I6 really shines for those looking for strong real-world grunt without the rough edges of an I4 or slight imbalance of a V6. The smooth power delivery makes it easy to put the power down coming out of corners or onto long straights. You‘ll rocket from 60 mph sprints to deadly top end speed runs while enjoying the characteristic whine of a high revving inline 6.
It lacks the manic top end punch of a large displacement V8. But not everyone needs a fire-breathing monster under their hood!
Engine Stats and Key Attributes
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Layout | Inline 6 cylinder (I6) |
| Displacement | 3.2 liters |
| Induction | Naturally Aspirated |
| Max Power * | 358 bhp |
| Max Torque * | 280 lb-ft |
| Redline | 7,200 RPM |
| Weight | ~375 lbs |
*Turbo option adds 70+ bhp and 90+ lb-ft of torque
Benefits
- Linear powerband
- High revving abilities
- More torque than similar V6s
- Lighter than a V8
- Smoother than I4 or V6
Compatible Vehicles and Availability
The 3.2L I6 swap has been available across Forza‘s core franchise since 2013:
Forza Motorsport Games
- Forza Motorsport 5
- Forza Motorsport 6
- Forza Motorsport 7
Forza Horizon Games
- Forza Horizon 2
- Forza Horizon 3
- Forza Horizon 4
- Forza Horizon 5
This wide representation makes the I6 a go-to for builders looking to drop some smooth boosted power into lighter coupes and sedans.
Some favorite donor vehicles include:
- Nissan 350Z
- Toyota Supra
- Honda S2000
- Mazda RX-7
- BMW M3 E36
And the list goes on – part of the beauty is experimenting to find the perfect I6 candidate for your style.
Comparison to Other Engine Types
How does the inline 6 stack up to alternate engine configurations? Let‘s compare some key metrics:
| Specs | 3.2L I6 | 3.0L V6 | 5.0L V8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Layout | I6 | V6 | V8 |
| Weight | 375 lbs | 315 lbs | 475 lbs |
| Max Power | 358 hp | 333 hp | 460 hp |
| Max Torque | 280 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Sound | Smoother | Raspy | Muscular |
Key Takeaways
- More power than a similarly sized V6
- Smoother power delivery than a V6
- Lighter than a comparable V8
- Less torque than a bigger V8
So in summary – the I6 splits the difference nicely, offering a performance middle ground for those who enjoy silky smooth straight line speed along with composed cornering.
The Future: More Power Potential?
Looking ahead, I think we could see even more powerful versions of the 3.2L I6 explored:
- 400+ hp turbocharged: With the right supporting mods, breaching 400 horsepower seems feasible
- Hybrid assist: Mild hybrid tech could smooth out the powerband even further
- Electric turbo: Instant electric boost for wicked fast spool up
The modular straight 6 design lends itself well to innovation so the future looks bright!
Conclusion: An Underrated Performance Gem
The 3.2L I6 is one of those under-the-radar engine swaps that can transform good cars into exceptional ones. Don‘t let its modest displacement fool you – fitted to the right chassis, it can run with the top dogs.
If you love the unique sound and smooth power of an inline 6, I highly recommend giving this swap a shot in your next Forza build. You won‘t regret it! Let me know what you think once you give it a try.
