Myth: A Big Engine Always Equals More Power
The “No Substitute for Cubic Inches” mantra suggests that a 5.0L engine will always beat a 2.0L engine. This was true when engines were simple, but turbocharging has turned this on its head. A small 4-cylinder engine equipped with a modern turbocharger can produce significantly more horsepower and torque than a much larger, naturally aspirated V8 from just a few years ago.
Today’s engines are about efficiency and “power density.” By forcing more air into a smaller space, manufacturers can get incredible performance out of tiny engines while keeping the car light and fuel-efficient. Displacement is just one part of the equation now, and it’s no longer the deciding factor in who wins the race.
