What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse engine placement?
2 Answers
The main differences between longitudinal and transverse engine placement are as follows: 1. The layout of the engine position is different. 2. Due to the different position layouts, the optimal power output direction of the engine varies. 3. Because of the above two characteristics, the best application and matching methods are different. 4. Transverse engines have a simpler structure, lower cost, and can expand the passenger compartment space, while longitudinal engine cars offer higher driving pleasure, better handling, and superior driving feel. 5. Cars with transverse engines have poorer handling and less driving pleasure. Longitudinal engines can encroach on passenger compartment space and are also more expensive.
I've driven quite a few cars and think that a longitudinal engine is placed the same length as the car's front and rear, like in old BMWs, usually paired with rear-wheel drive. The center of gravity is balanced, making the car handle turns nimbly and accelerate steadily. Unlike transverse engines, which are placed sideways in the width direction, commonly found in front-wheel-drive family cars like the Honda Civic. This layout makes the front end shorter, saves space, and gives more room in the front seats. But the handling isn't as stable as with longitudinal engines, and sometimes the body sways noticeably. I've also found that longitudinal-engine cars are better suited for mountain roads or highways, where they can make better use of their power. Transverse-engine cars are more agile in crowded city traffic and easier to park. However, longitudinal engines are harder to repair—the engine is deeper inside, making parts replacement more troublesome. Transverse engines are easier to fix and cost less. Overall, choosing a car depends on your needs: go for longitudinal if you want fun, and transverse if you want practicality.
