How do I make the decision - 3.8 or the 4.6

[Icon]

So you guys that had to choose between the two different engine options what were your deciding facts. Besides price and all because thats obvious. Is the extra power worth the money or did you do it for other reasons also?

[Rich Genesis V8]

I got the 4.6 and really love the power and smooth shifting. Mostly it was what was available in a color I likes (White/Black). I believe the 4.6 has some more amenities that are options or not available on the 3.8. It is an extremely quiet car, although the ride is a little rough compared to my previous M35. In addition to the up front extra cost of the 4.6, of course it'll cost more at the pump. But when you step on the gas getting on the highway and see items get smaller in your mirror...

[Wingman]

Are both the 3.8 and 4.6 liter running on premium gas or is it only the bigger engine that needs the more expensive gas.

[Rich Genesis V8]

Originally Posted by Wingman

Are both the 3.8 and 4.6 liter running on premium gas or is it only the bigger engine that needs the more expensive gas.

Neither engine requires premium gas. So far I have used regular in my 4.6 and it doesn't seem to suffer at all. The articles say premium will buy you a few more horses, but I don't see any need for it. I have observed no pinging or dieseling that V8s of years-ago exhibited on regular. I don't plan on changing. I have read very good things about the 3.8 engine and it is a bit less powerful, but doesn't seem to lose much in horse, zero to 60 or quarter mile, when compared to the 4.6.

[Icon]

Good to know about the premium, save some money at the pump due to the high prices these days

[Adam]

Test drive, test drive, test drive - only you can really tell if you need the extra performance and power.

[Flying Fossil]

Originally Posted by Icon

Good to know about the premium, save some money at the pump due to the high prices these days

If your buying a $40K car and are concearned about gas prices or mileage, your buying the wrong car.

[Wingman]

Originally Posted by Flying Fossil

If your buying a $40K car and are concearned about gas prices or mileage, your buying the wrong car.

I don't agree....if I could get very similar cars for $40,000 but one has better gas mileage or only one takes premium gas, why would it not be a concern?

But then again if you mean being a penny pusher and making them major factors in your decision because it takes premium gas. I understand your point just

[Alan]

I think he just meant if you are spending $40000+ on a car you should be able to afford the gas you put in it and not think about it, otherwise you may be in the wrong price league

[4.6_Tom]

If money is of little concern, the 4.6 is a fine option just for the sheer power and torque. A very classy sedan that has a beast of an engine.

[3.8Liter]

Have you made a choice Icon?