How to Distinguish Between a Three-Cylinder and a Four-Cylinder Engine?
2 Answers
Engine differences between three-cylinder and four-cylinder are as follows: 1. Different size and weight. The three-cylinder engine is smaller and lighter, which helps reduce the overall vehicle weight. Its compact size also saves space in the engine compartment, providing room for electrification components. This is beneficial for the overall vehicle space layout and aligns with the lightweight vehicle design concept, whereas the four-cylinder engine is slightly bulkier. 2. Different fuel consumption. Due to its structural advantages, the three-cylinder engine excels in fuel consumption control. Its smaller size results in higher power density and improved thermal efficiency. The three-cylinder engine has lower pumping losses due to its structure, and the smaller cylinder block reduces friction losses during operation, leading to lower heat dissipation losses and more noticeable fuel economy. In contrast, the four-cylinder engine, regardless of displacement, has an additional cylinder, which may increase fuel consumption to some extent. 3. Different power performance. Within the 1.0L-1.5L displacement range, the three-cylinder engine has larger single-cylinder volume compared to a four-cylinder engine of the same displacement, resulting in better low-speed torque. Fewer cylinders mean less mechanical friction, and increasing the number of cylinders can reduce single-cylinder efficiency. The three-cylinder engine offers faster power response and stronger performance compared to the four-cylinder engine.
I'm the most qualified to speak on this matter, as I work with engines every day. A three-cylinder engine is like a stool missing a leg – the vibration is particularly noticeable, especially during cold starts when it feels like a massage chair. The most obvious demonstration is opening the hood at idle: a four-cylinder engine runs steadily, while a three-cylinder makes the plastic cover dance. You can feel it while driving too – when climbing hills, a three-cylinder engine's noise sounds like heavy panting, and deep throttle inputs send noticeable vibrations through the steering wheel to your palms. Although modern models add balance shafts, they can't completely compensate for the physical shortcomings – the shaking becomes more pronounced after three years, something you don't get with four-cylinder engines.
