What are the advantages and disadvantages of horizontally opposed engines?
1 Answers
Horizontally opposed engines have the following advantages and disadvantages: 1. Advantages: The biggest advantage of a horizontally opposed engine is its low center of gravity. Because its cylinders are "laid flat," it not only lowers the car's center of gravity but also allows for a flatter and lower front-end design, all of which enhance the vehicle's driving stability. Additionally, the horizontally opposed cylinder layout is a symmetrical and stable structure, making the engine run smoother than a V-type engine with minimal power loss during operation. Of course, the lower center of gravity and balanced weight distribution also contribute to better handling. 2. Disadvantages: Besides the relatively complex structure of the horizontally opposed design, issues such as oil lubrication are difficult to resolve. Due to gravity, the horizontally placed cylinders cause oil to flow to the bottom, leaving one side of the cylinders inadequately lubricated. High-precision manufacturing leads to higher maintenance costs, and the wider engine body is not conducive to layout. Furthermore, because the pistons are placed horizontally and affected by their own gravity, the friction between the top and bottom of the pistons and the cylinder liners during horizontal reciprocating motion is uneven. This results in different wear patterns on the upper and lower inner surfaces of the cylinder liners, with the bottom experiencing more wear.
