Engine Tech | Boxer, Inline, or V?


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Boxer Engine

Popular in the Subaru and the Porsche community, the Boxer engine features horizontally opposed pistons. Also known as the flat engine, this layout’s pistons move left and right toward each other as opposed to up and down in traditional engines. The unique design reduces the weight on the crankshaft, ensuring all energy is going to good use while providing smooth operation. The packaging also makes for a low center of gravity, which translates into better handling on the road and the track. Maintenance isn’t one of the highlights of this platform due to its wide design. Boxer engine swaps are almost non-existent, as it takes a lot to modify the engine bay to fit the untraditional characteristics of this layout.

 

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