What is the difference between 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines in cars?
1 Answers
The differences between 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines in cars are as follows: 1. Volume and weight: The 3-cylinder engine is smaller and lighter, which can reduce the overall vehicle weight. Its smaller size also saves space in the engine compartment, providing room for electrification components, which is beneficial for the overall vehicle space layout and aligns with the lightweight body design concept, while the 4-cylinder engine is slightly heavier. 2. Fuel consumption: Due to its structural advantages, the 3-cylinder engine performs excellently in fuel consumption control. Its smaller size results in higher power density and thermal efficiency. The 3-cylinder engine has lower pumping losses due to its structure, and because the cylinder block is smaller, friction losses during operation are also reduced, leading to lower heat dissipation losses and more noticeable fuel economy. In contrast, the 4-cylinder engine, regardless of displacement, has one more cylinder, which may increase fuel consumption to some extent. 3. Power performance: Within the displacement range of 1.0L-1.5L, due to fewer cylinders than a 4-cylinder engine, the 3-cylinder engine has a larger single-cylinder volume under the same displacement, resulting in better low-speed torque. Fewer cylinders mean less mechanical friction, and increasing the number of cylinders may reduce single-cylinder efficiency. Compared to the 4-cylinder engine, the 3-cylinder engine offers faster power response and stronger power performance.