To the uninitiated, a turbocharger and a supercharger may seem like interchangeable terms related to an engine. But while they both provide extra power, the two aren’t the same. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What is a turbocharger in Conway, AR?” then keep reading. This post will teach you the basics of what you need to know about turbochargers and superchargers.
Turbocharger
A turbocharger uses exhaust steam to get its energy. The exhaust runs through a turbine that spins the compressor, which can get spinning at speeds as high as 150,000 rotations per minute (RPM). At 150,000 RPM, a turbocharger can get your engine going 30 times faster than a normal car. Since the exhaust system powers it, a turbocharger does take a little bit to kick in, so your vehicle may lunge forward when it gets that initial boost.
There are quite a few benefits of having a turbocharged engine. First of all, a turbocharged engine requires less fuel to produce the same amount of power as a non-turbocharged engine. For example, to produce 200 horsepower, a turbocharged engine only requires four cylinders, while a standard engine requires six. With fewer cylinders and a smaller size, a turbocharged engine can be 20 percent more fuel efficient.
A smaller engine also means that the car itself doesn’t have to be as heavy, which adds to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. This smaller size also means that a turbocharged engine is quite a bit quieter than a standard engine, which is sure to make all of your neighbors happy.
In addition to less noise pollution, a turbocharger has smog-altering equipment that reduces the level of emissions. Since it’s more eco-friendly, many governments are requiring newer vehicles to have turbocharged engines.
Supercharger
Now it’s time to answer the question, “What is a supercharger in Conway, AR?” A supercharger is a belt connected directly to the engine that compresses the air coming into the engine. More air forced into the engine also allows more fuel to come in, meaning a larger combustion charge. A supercharger can add over 40 percent more horsepower than a standard engine.
Besides drastically increasing your horsepower, a supercharger offers a couple advantages over a turbocharger. With a supercharged engine, your car won’t lunge forward like it would if your vehicle has a turbocharger.
Superchargers are also much less expensive than turbochargers. A supercharger is far more cost-efficient if you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle. A turbocharger necessitates an expensive modification to the exhaust system, whereas a supercharger can simply be bolted to the engine. Less labor required of the mechanic means you don’t have to break the bank to get a high-performing vehicle.
Regardless of what’s under the hood, your vehicle needs to be maintained regularly. Come by Riverdale Automotive today to get a checkup or even have a performance tune-up. Our mechanics are ASE certified and have decades of experience servicing luxury and foreign vehicles, so you can rest easy knowing that your car is in good hands with our experts.