Since all auto manufacturers have to follow new EPA and SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards in the 21st century there will be changes in the next 5 years of GM vehicles. The new 3.6 Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) in the CXS version of the Buick Lacrosse should pump out:
3.6 DOHC 240 hp @ 6000 rpms with 225 lbs-torque @ 2000 rpms with a EPA 19/28 mpg.
vs the CX and CXL versions of the car with a:
3.8 Series III 200 hp @ 5200 rpms with 230 lbs-torque @ 4000 rpms with a EPA: 20/29 mpg.
I sense that modifications to the CXS version of the LaCrosse will be much tougher for the DOHC if you are planning on modifying the vehicle for racing.
www.pfyc.com ,
www.zzperformance.com , and
www.intense-racing.com have already mods for the 3.8 series II / III engines.
Its interesting to know that the older 3.8 series II/
III gets better fuel economy and the engine has lower
rpm for the hp but higher rpms for the torque. So what
is really the better performance engine for working
less to get the max power?