In the Engine Performance section, learn about horsepower, carburetors, the difference between turbochargers and superchargers and even how nitrous oxide boosts engine performance.
Since the invention of the internal combustion engine, automotive engineers, speed junkies and racecar designers have been searching for ways to boost its power. And they did, of course -- creating superchargers that make an engine more efficient by forcing air into the combustion chamber. See more »
The air and fuel mixtures that power your car's engine are controlled by valves that open and shut. The essential camshaft rotates and instigates the valve movement. But how exactly does this crucial engine part work? See how well you can shift mental gears and take the camshaft quiz.
See more »
Can you tell the difference between a camshaft and a stick shift? You will once you take the engine performance quiz. See if you know what makes your car get up and go.
See more »
It's no secret -- your car needs fuel. Everyone knows that you put fuel into the tank to keep the car running. But have you ever stopped to think about how the fuel gets from the fuel tank into your engine? Take our quiz to find out how much you know about fuel injection systems.
See more »
The camshaft has a huge effect on engine performance. It helps let the air/fuel mixture into the engine and get the exhaust out. Learn all about the camshaft and how a new one can radically change an engine's behavior.
See more »
If you're planning to make more power from your engine. Switching to hi-performance exhaust headers are a good idea. Find out how exhaust headers work to improve engine performance.
See more »
I've heard about tuned intake runners for car engines that provide a kind of turbo-charging effect. How do they work?
See more »
The goal of a carburetor is to mix just the right amount of gasoline with air so that the engine runs properly. Learn more about how a carburetor in a gasoline engine works.
See more »
I'm always hearing people talk about pumping nitrous oxide into an engine. How does nitrous oxide help an engine perform better?
See more »
As concerns about vehicle emissions and fuel efficiency have grown, fuel injection systems have risen to the forefront of auto technology. Trying to keep up with new environmental laws, carmakers began installing these systems in all new models.
See more »
Surprisingly enough, horsepower actually does refer to the power of horses. But over the years it’s become a valuable measurement for all kinds of machinery. Learn how horsepower is calculated and what it means to the automobile industry.
See more »
Since the invention of the internal combustion engine, automotive engineers, speed junkies and racecar designers have been searching for ways to boost its power. And they did, of course -- creating superchargers that make an engine more efficient by forcing air into the combustion chamber.
See more »
When people talk about race cars or high-performance sports cars, the topic of turbochargers usually comes up. A turbo can significantly boost an engine's horsepower without increasing its weight.
See more »
Lifetime fluids are developed to require little or no maintenance for the life of your vehicle. But, is anyone developing lifetime engine oil?
See more »
If you own a luxury or performance vehicle, then you know how expensive it can be to fill the fuel tank with premium gasoline. But is this high-octane fuel really necessary in most cases?
See more »
What does it mean when a car has dual overhead cams? Does it matter? Is a car with dual overhead cams better than one with single overhead cams?
See more »
Japanese automaker Honda is best known for their VTEC system. Almost all of their newer vehicles are equipped with VTEC engines. But what does it actually do and how does it maximum engine performance?
See more »
Engines need a certain amount of oxygen to make the car run. Exactly how much is needed? And if an engine used more, what would happen to the car?
See more »
Most cars have a 120-horsepower engine, and SUVs have a 200-horsepower engine. But mopeds have a 1-horsepower engine, and they get great gas mileage, too. So why can't I put the small engine in the big car?
See more »
Forced induction systems are one of the best ways to make lots of power, so which system is better? Turbochargers or Superchargers? Learn the pros and cons of both.
See more »
The engines in today's NASCAR racecars produce upward of 750 horsepower, and they do it without turbochargers, superchargers or particularly exotic components. So how do they make all that power?
See more »
