What are the pros and cons of horizontally opposed engines?
1 Answers
Pros and cons of horizontally opposed engines: 1. Advantages: The biggest advantage of a horizontally opposed engine is its low center of gravity. Since 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. These factors 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: The horizontally opposed structure is relatively complex, and 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 makes it less favorable for layout. Moreover, 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 reciprocation varies. This results in uneven wear on the upper and lower inner surfaces of the cylinder liners, with the bottom experiencing more wear.
