Ahhhh, Crap! I remember this debate from years ago, when the V6 resurfaced in autos. Wish I had taken notes!

V6 engines have been used in construction and allied equipment for a great many years before the Automobile. GM used V6 in PU trucks and Kaiser Jeeps used Buick's version, all in the early 60's. After the oil crunch of the 70's, V6's resurfaced as the "savior" by providing power and economy. Sure...

The most notable difference with the engines you mention is the Power-Pulse interval. There are those who will swear since the power pulses are closer together in the V8 as opposed to the V6, the V8 will provide more torque and last longer due to lower component strain. This is perhaps a generalization, and is a bit simplistic for the most part.

In your question, you ask for comparisons between a 3.8ltr V8, and a 3.2ltr V6. In this case, I have no doubt, with similar gearing, the 3.8ltr V8 will win about any contest. I base my answer simply on displacement. The 3.8ltr V8 is larger by some 36 or so cubic inches. No doubt the V8 will most likely be smoother running. This, too is too simplistic, simply because the bore/stroke of the engines can be configured so differently, and the compression ratios can vary a lot so that power output between the two can vary significantly. Couple this with SOHC, DOHC, etc valve-train designs, etc and the variables keep tallying.

Now, if all things were otherwise equal (engine design, valve train, etc), then I restate my belief the V8 will win any contest.

The best method of answering this question would to be to look at the power/torque curves v/s rpm. Typically, again a generalization, a V8 will develop its maximum Torque lower in the RPM band than a engine of similar size, but fewer cylinders. Torque is what you need to focus on, as HP is a function of torque.

All this said, the V8 will have an easier time pulling the grade...

__________________
RM Smith
1988 560SL

"Where is it again that we are going, and why are we in this handbasket"?