This seemingly small difference affects several aspects:
* Displacement: The 3.1L has, as the name suggests, a larger displacement (3.1 liters) than the 2.8L (2.8 liters). This directly translates to more power and torque, though the difference isn't dramatic.
* Bore and Stroke: To achieve the larger displacement, the 3.1L engine has a larger bore. The stroke (the distance the piston travels) might be slightly different as well, though the exact figures vary depending on the specific year and application of each engine.
* Internal Components: While many components are similar, there will be differences in internal parts like pistons, connecting rods, and possibly the crankshaft to accommodate the larger bore. These may not be readily apparent without disassembly.
In short, although they are closely related and may sound similar to the untrained ear, the 3.1L is a more powerful engine due to its larger bore and resulting increase in displacement. They are not interchangeable without significant modification.