While the VR6 might have a "V" in its name and two angled cylinder banks, it has much more in common with an inline-six configuration than a V6. Look at the VR6's bank angle again — 10.6 or 15 ...

The V6, on the other hand, shares no such luxury; it needs counterweights to balance the crankshaft. A V6 is really two three-cylinder engines arranged in a V shape on an engine block.

The all-American V8 kicks out as much as 350 hp, but the V8 power isn't as mighty as it once was. These are the V6 motors that put the LS1 to shame.

Moving up to a 304-horsepower 3.6-liter direct injection V6 raises the tab to $45,625 for rear-drive and $47,525 for all-wheel drive.