While planning to buy a new car, most people first look at its looks, sunroof, big touchscreen, camera and other features. After this comes price and mileage. But one thing that buyers often overlook is the car’s engine. When a salesperson in a showroom talks about a 3-cylinder or 4-cylinder engine, many people do not understand the difference between the two. Do more cylinders mean more power? Does a car with 3-cylinder engine give low mileage? Or is a vehicle with a 4-cylinder engine better? Let us tell you about it in detail.
What are 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines?
First of all let us understand what is the function of a cylinder in an engine. Actually, the cylinder is the part of the engine inside which the piston moves up and down. During this process, the mixture of air and fuel is combusted and the power generated from it propels the vehicle. Now an engine having three cylinders and three pistons is called a 3-cylinder engine. At the same time, an engine with four cylinders and four pistons is called a 4-cylinder engine. This difference may seem very small, but its impact can be felt while driving.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a 3-cylinder engine?
3-cylinder engines are found in many budget and mid-range cars these days. Its biggest feature is that it is small in size and light in weight. It also costs less to manufacture due to fewer parts. This is the reason why companies are able to market such cars at affordable prices.
A 3-cylinder engine can perform well in terms of mileage as well. However, this does not mean that every 3-cylinder car will give more mileage. Actual mileage also depends on engine capacity, car weight, tuning and driving style.
Its one drawback is engine vibration and noise. Being a three cylinder, it is a bit difficult to balance the vibration generated in the engine. In such condition, a slight vibration is felt in the steering and cabin when the vehicle is started or when the accelerator is pressed. If there are five people sitting in the car and you have to travel on hilly roads, the power in the normal naturally aspirated 3-cylinder engine feels a bit low.
Why is a 4-cylinder engine considered simple?
A 4-cylinder engine can be a good option if you want a car that has low engine noise and doesn’t feel too much vibration while driving. In this four pistons work in a specific sequence. Due to their way of working, the engine balance is better. The advantage is that less vibration is felt while driving and the journey inside the cabin is also more comfortable.
If you have to travel long distances on the highway, drive at high speeds or overtake other cars, a 4-cylinder engine can provide a great experience due to its good power delivery. Especially when there are more people sitting in the car or there is luggage in it. However, it also has some disadvantages. Being a four cylinder, the engine has more parts. This can increase its weight and production cost. In some cases, the fuel consumption may even be higher. This is the reason why a car with a 4-cylinder engine in the same range may cost a bit more.
So which engine should you choose when buying a car?
Not that a 4-cylinder engine is better than a 3-cylinder in every way. If your budget is limited, you have to drive daily in the city and want a car with good mileage, a 3-cylinder engine can also be a good option. Whereas, if you frequently travel on highways, like smooth driving and want better power, you can consider a 4-cylinder engine.
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