What is the Difference Between a 4-Cylinder Turbocharger and a V6 Engine?

What to Know About the Engine of Your Used Car

Your engine is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of your vehicle. Yet when drivers decide it’s time to buy a used car, many look past its engine and solely focus on the car’s exterior. Under the hood is where you should always start as you search for a used car to call your very own.

It’s important to note that there are several different types of engines found in cars today. In this guide, we’ll be focusing on two common ones you’ll likely find on the lot of a used car dealership near you: Four-cylinder turbocharger and V6. Both of these engines provide you with an extra boost of acceleration power on the road, but it’s up to you to decide which one may be more fitting for what you’re wanting out of your ride.

So, how do you know which one can deliver with not only the power you’re looking for, but also the other elements that are important to you? Consider these differences, provided by our buy here pay here used car lot, Quick Auto.

Why do Cylinders Matter?

A cylinder is the part of your car’s engine where fuel is combusted and power is generated. Using small, controlled explosions, your cylinders help the engine turn raw fuel into power.

A good rule of thumb is that the more cylinders an engine has, the quicker power is generated. However, more power means more fuel consumption, so you can expect this to have an effect on the fuel efficiency of your used car.

What is a 4-Cylinder Turbocharger?

Also called an I4, a four-cylinder engine is assembled so that each cylinder lines up with the next one, creating a straight line. Turbocharged I4s have a lower displacement, which causes them to produce less emissions, making them more fuel efficient than other engines.

The turbocharger is what makes the I4 so unique. It returns exhaust back into the cylinders, creating bigger “explosions,” resulting in more power and horsepower than even some of the largest engines on the market.

What is a V6?

A V6 engine is a type of six-cylinder engine in which the cylinders make a “V” shape. The V6 is powered solely using the air and fuel brought into the engine during the first cycle. Because more air is brought into the pistons, it forms larger explosions. The result is a low RPM torque and even more power than a turbocharged I4.

Which Engine is Right for Me?

While we can’t quite tell you which engine is best for you, we can provide you with a few pointers that can help you decide for yourself.

  • Cost
    If you’re looking to save as much money as possible, you may want to consider an I4. Because V6 engines are more powerful, they’re less fuel efficient, meaning more trips to the gas pump. To get the most fuel out of your daily commute, an I4 engine is your best bet.

  • Fuel Efficiency
    A used car with more fuel efficiency will not only use less gas, but will also burn less pollution into the environment. For drivers looking to go green, consider an I4 engine when exploring a used car dealership.

  • Performance
    For some drivers, speed is a top priority. A V6 engine creates more power, more quickly, making it your best option if you’re looking for a used car that can seamlessly accelerate to high speeds with just a tap of the gas pedal.

Next Steps to Finding a Used Car for You

Now that you’re more familiar with what each engine can offer you behind the wheel, it’s finally time to check them out at a used car dealership near you. Not only will the friendly staff be able to help you locate a used car with each engine, but they’ll also be able to answer any additional questions you may have.

As you test drive each used car, pay close attention to how its engine feels and drives. Take the vehicle on the highway to see how quickly it can accelerate and whether you feel like it can provide you with the power you need.

Find a Used Car to Call Your Own at Quick Auto!

At Quick Auto, our in-house financing car lot is different from the rest. Because everything is done under one roof, this means you pay for your used car at the same place you bought it. Have a poor credit score but looking for a used car? In-house financing can help! Regardless of your credit score, you can purchase one of our used cars, thanks to our one-of-a-kind buy here pay here finance model.

Ready to get started? Stop by one of our seven used car dealerships near you! We offer used cars in Hammond, South Bend, Highland, Elkhart, La Porte, Mishawaka, and Portage!

To send us a message, contact us on our website. We can’t wait to hear from you soon!