Talking about the original SSM prototype, which had an I-5, made me wonder: Is there any significant technical/performance/smoothness benefit to an I-5?

I-4s and V-6s generally require balance shafts to run smooth, while an I-6 is naturally balanced. Powerwise, a cylinder is a cylinder, provided the cylinder, piston, and head are designed right.

Thoughts? Or was honda just going for the "uniqueness" aspect?

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by WestSideBilly
[B]Thoughts?

 

I-5s aren't all that common, though - not nearly as many as there are I4/V6... so maybe not unique, but uncommon.

 

Also, there have been some legendary cars that used I-5's. The mid 80's Audi Quattro's come to mind.

 

The Acura Vigor also used a 5 cylinder. I thought it was a pretty good car, I guess it just didn't have a place in the market with all of the cars in that class.

 

some volvo's used to have I-5s

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by WestSideBilly
[B]Talking about the original SSM prototype, which had an I-5, made me wonder:

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by bbsilver
[B]

An I5 is dynamically unstable and would require a balancing shaft.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by WestSideBilly
[B]

Well, strictly speaking, an I6 is the only dynamically stable block.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by WestSideBilly
[B]Well, strictly speaking, an I6 is the only dynamically stable block.