What are the disadvantages of a three-cylinder engine?

[VincentLynn]

Here is a detailed introduction to the disadvantages of a three-cylinder engine: 1. High cost: The manufacturing and maintenance costs are higher than those of a conventional four-cylinder engine. To achieve high output with a small displacement and address the strong vibrations caused by structural asymmetry, many new technologies must be adopted. 2. High vibration levels: Unbalanced working conditions make it more prone to vibrations. Due to the uneven number of cylinders on both sides of the engine, it is more likely to experience shaking during operation, and the engine noise may also be louder. Although balance shaft technology is used to mitigate excessive vibration intensity, the vibration levels are still higher than those of four-cylinder or six-cylinder engines. 3. Poor acceleration performance: Smaller intake volume results in average acceleration performance during startup and acceleration. Compared to a four-cylinder engine, the absence of one cylinder leads to a smaller intake volume, which also imposes certain limitations on acceleration performance during the initial stage.

[StGavin]

I've driven several cars with three-cylinder engines and found them quite uncomfortable. The biggest issue is the excessive vibration – when stopped at a red light, the steering wheel shakes so much it makes my hands go numb. The noise problem is also annoying; on highways, the constant buzzing makes quiet conversation impossible. The power delivery isn't smooth either – acceleration feels jerky rather than seamless. At low RPMs, there's insufficient torque, making the car feel sluggish when climbing hills or running the AC, requiring frequent hard throttle inputs. While fuel efficiency is slightly better, saving some money on gas, the overall driving experience is far worse and more fatiguing. I recommend extensive test drives before purchase – don't be fooled by fuel economy claims. Switching to a four-cylinder engine makes a world of difference in comfort, especially for long-distance driving.