Posted on 11/29/2024
When it comes to choosing a car, many people assume that smaller engines are the go-to option for better fuel efficiency. It makes sense at first glance—less engine capacity should mean less fuel consumption, right? While this might be true in some cases, it’s far from a universal rule. The reality is that small car engines often aren’t as efficient as they’re made out to be, especially when placed under real-world driving conditions. The Basics of Engine Efficiency At its core, engine efficiency depends on how much power is required to move the car versus how much fuel the engine burns to generate that power. Smaller engines are designed to use less fuel under light loads, like cruising on a highway at a steady speed or driving in mild conditions. This is where they shine, as they deliver power efficiently without consuming a lot of gas. However, once a small engine is tasked with heavier demands—like climbing hills, carrying a full lo ... read more