What's the difference between 1.6L and 1.2T, which one has more horsepower?
2 Answers
The difference between 1.6L and 1.2T is the engine type: 1.6L is a naturally aspirated engine, while 1.2T is a turbocharged engine. The 1.2T engine has more horsepower. Naturally aspirated is a type of car intake that relies on atmospheric pressure to force air into the combustion chamber without any supercharger. Modern engines can be divided into naturally aspirated and supercharged types, with the latter further categorized into mechanical supercharging, turbocharging, and pressure wave supercharging. A turbocharged engine refers to an engine equipped with a turbocharger. A turbocharger is essentially an air compressor that increases intake air volume by compressing air. It utilizes the inertial force of exhaust gases from the engine to drive the turbine in the turbine chamber, which in turn drives the coaxial impeller. The impeller then pressurizes the air delivered through the air filter pipe, forcing it into the cylinders.
I worked in an auto repair shop for several years and have dealt with both types of engines quite a bit. The 1.6L naturally aspirated engine is like a steady and reliable worker, delivering power smoothly with linear acceleration, but its maximum horsepower is usually around 120. The 1.2T, on the other hand, is impressive—thanks to the little helper called a turbocharger. Despite its smaller displacement, it can push horsepower beyond 130. When the turbo kicks in during overtaking, the extra punch is substantial. However, I should remind you that turbocharged engines are a bit more delicate. Maintenance costs are about 30% higher than naturally aspirated engines, and as they age, the turbo is prone to issues—replacing one can cost half as much as a new engine. If you frequently drive on highways, the 1.2T is indeed thrilling, but for pure city commuting, the hassle-free 1.6L is a better fit.
