What does L4 mean?
2 Answers
L4 refers to a standard inline 4-cylinder engine. The majority of small-displacement vehicles are equipped with L4 engines, and such cars are the most common, including models like Jetta, Santana, and Besturn. Generally, cylinder blocks can be categorized into the following three types: 1. General-type cylinder block: Its characteristic is that the oil pan mounting plane and the crankshaft rotation center are at the same height. The advantages of this cylinder block are its small body height, light weight, compact structure, ease of processing, and convenient crankshaft installation and removal. However, its disadvantage is relatively poor rigidity and strength. 2. Raised-type cylinder block: Its characteristic is that the oil pan mounting plane is lower than the crankshaft rotation center. Its advantages are good strength and rigidity, capable of withstanding greater mechanical loads. However, its disadvantages include poorer manufacturability, a bulky structure, and more difficult processing. 3. Tunnel-type cylinder block: In this type, the main bearing holes for the crankshaft are integral, using rolling bearings, with larger main bearing holes, and the crankshaft is installed from the rear of the cylinder block. Its advantages are a compact structure, good rigidity and strength, but its disadvantages include high precision requirements for processing, poorer manufacturability, and inconvenient crankshaft installation and removal.
When it comes to the term L4, in the automotive world it usually refers to an inline-four engine. I gotta say, after driving for so many years, this is the most common engine configuration I've seen. Those four cylinders stand straight in a row, like a neat little team hiding under the hood. Why do so many cars use L4? First off, it's super fuel-efficient. I drive a compact car with an L4 for daily commuting in the city, and the fuel consumption is significantly lower than a big V6, saving me a good chunk on gas money every month. Maintenance is also simple and affordable—parts are cheap and easy to find, so no wasted money at the repair shop. The downside? It doesn't feel as powerful, and you might need to step on the gas a bit more when climbing steep hills. Overall, it's super popular in economy cars and compact SUVs—models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic have won hearts with their L4 engines. If you're curious how to spot one, just pop the hood and look for those straight-lined cylinders. Remember, it's a safe and reliable choice, perfect for daily driving.
