What is the difference between three-cylinder and four-cylinder cars?
2 Answers
Differences between three-cylinder and four-cylinder cars: 1. Different number of cylinders: A three-cylinder engine has three cylinders; a four-cylinder engine has four cylinders. 2. Different weights: A three-cylinder engine is smaller in size and lighter in weight; a four-cylinder engine is relatively larger in size and heavier in weight. 3. Different fuel consumption: A three-cylinder engine consumes less fuel; a four-cylinder engine consumes relatively more fuel. 4. Different low-speed torque: A three-cylinder engine has greater low-speed torque; a four-cylinder engine has relatively smaller low-speed torque. Introduction to car engines: 1. A car engine is the device that provides power to the car, acting as the heart of the car, determining its power, economy, stability, and environmental friendliness. 2. Depending on the power source, car engines can be divided into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric motors for electric vehicles, and hybrid engines, among others.
A three-cylinder engine has only three cylinders, while a four-cylinder has four, which affects the driving experience. After driving for five years, I've found that the three-cylinder's compact and lightweight design causes noticeable steering wheel vibration at idle, especially during cold starts—it feels like a phone vibrating. However, in city traffic jams, its low-RPM torque is sufficient, and its fuel efficiency stands out, with about 1L lower fuel consumption compared to a four-cylinder of the same displacement. Manufacturers have added dual-mass flywheels and balance shafts to reduce vibrations, but the physical limitations can't be completely eliminated. Four-cylinder engines, with their even firing intervals, run smoothly and deliver strong performance at high speeds with less engine noise. That said, three-cylinders are often used in small cars due to lower costs, while four-cylinders are more common in mid-size and above models. In my opinion, choose a three-cylinder for city commuting and a four-cylinder for frequent long-distance driving.
