Which car models feature a horizontally opposed engine?
3 Answers
Currently, only Japanese automaker Subaru and German manufacturer Porsche offer car models with horizontally opposed engines, though not all vehicles in their lineups feature this engine type. The horizontally opposed engine boasts numerous advantages, primarily its smooth operation, stability, low center of gravity, and enhanced handling. Presently, Porsche equips only the 718 and 911 models with its renowned horizontally opposed engines. The Porsche 718 comes with either a 2.5T or 2.0T four-cylinder horizontally opposed turbocharged engine, both paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Porsche 911 offers three horizontally opposed forced induction engine options: 3.0T, 3.8T, and 4.0L. In terms of powertrain configurations, Subaru has long been celebrated for its horizontally opposed engines. Subaru models such as the Forester, Subaru XV, Impreza WRX, Legacy, and Outback all utilize horizontally opposed engines.
I've driven quite a few Subaru models, and their horizontally opposed engines are truly distinctive. Family SUVs like the Forester and XV use this layout, with a low center of gravity for stable cornering. The Legacy wagon drives like it's flying close to the ground, and the BRZ sports car with this engine has incredibly precise steering. My friend's old Impreza WRX has a particularly thrilling exhaust note from its horizontally opposed engine. These engines have pistons that move horizontally, resulting in less vibration and smoother operation, though maintenance can be a bit more involved.
Most Porsche models are equipped with horizontally opposed engines. When I test-drove the 911, I could clearly feel the handling advantages brought by its rear-engine layout. The 718 Boxster features a mid-engine layout paired with a horizontally opposed engine, making its rear end particularly responsive during cornering. The most classic example is the original Beetle – that rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-four engine still has its charm even by today's standards. This engine configuration has a low height, which helps lower the vehicle's center of gravity, resulting in significantly reduced body roll during mountain driving.
