Are Twin Turbos on a 4 Cylinder Engine Worth it for High Performance?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility and performance implications of using twin turbochargers on a four-cylinder engine. Participants explore the technical aspects of forced induction, particularly in the context of automotive performance, and consider various configurations and modifications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a four-cylinder engine can produce enough exhaust gas to effectively utilize two turbochargers, suggesting that twin turbos might be excessive for such a small engine.
  • Another participant recommends researching the Offenhauser 4-cylinder engine, which has historical significance in performance engineering.
  • A participant mentions the popularity of twin turbo setups in road and rally cars, but raises concerns about the necessity of such configurations for small engines, arguing that a single turbo may be more efficient and easier to install.
  • It is noted that twin turbo systems are becoming less common due to advancements in single turbo technology, such as multi-vane or variable-nozzle turbines, which can provide a broader power band with less complexity.
  • Some participants emphasize that simply adding turbos does not guarantee increased performance, highlighting the importance of proper tuning and modifications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the practicality and effectiveness of twin turbos for four-cylinder engines. There is no consensus on whether twin turbos are a worthwhile investment, with some advocating for single turbo setups instead.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various technical considerations, including boost requirements, engine modifications, and the historical context of turbocharging in performance vehicles. The discussion reflects a range of assumptions about engine performance and the implications of forced induction.

KidWonder
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Hey Guys, I'm fairly new to this forum.

I would just like to know is their a way to allow for a four cylinder engine to produce for more engine gas to spin 2 turbos. As I researched on forced induction, I've found that Twin turbos on a four cylinder might be one turbo too many, though I imagine the spin-up (lag free) benefits of two teensy, weensy turbos might be there as on a bigger motor. I'm in High School, and planning on studying Mechanical Engineering at Ohio State, then start a car company(not likely).

Thanks Guys
God Bless
 
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welcome fellow Buckeye
I do not know but would recommend you research the Offenhauser 4 cylinder engine that was refined to the ultimate 4 cylinder thru Indy years as a start.
rm
 
From Subaru
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/2909/81/32270040002_large.jpg
 
Look up what people do to their road/rally cars from Subaru and Mitsubishi. There are countless sites and threads from people who have twin blown their 4 bangers. However, why would you want to? On a small 4 banger, you certainly won't need that much boost and you'll have to figure out other stuff before you can drive it. Simply slapping on a couple turbos doesn't make a fast car. A good GT40 turbo will provide plenty of air to a 4 cylinder. Single turbos also spool quicker and require a lot less engine modification inside the small engine bay of a 4 cyl. car.
 
Twin turbo systems would be classed as an odd choice for a performance small 4 cylinder engine used for automotive use. Twin turbos are (in general) phasing out due to modern turbine development of multi-vane or variable-nozzle turbines which allow for a single turbine to operate over a far wider range of exhaust gas flow rate than was possible twenty years ago, therefore applications which would have been twin turbo to achieve a usable power-band all round have been phased out to multi-vane or variable nozzle single turbocharger applications which offer inherently less frictional losses and complexity. That being said, twin turbochargers are still used on some flat-plane V8's and Boxer configurations as each bank of cylinders opperates a separate exhaust system.
 
Frosteh said:
Simply slapping on a couple turbos doesn't make a fast car. A good GT40 turbo will provide plenty of air to a 4 cylinder. Single turbos also spool quicker and require a lot less engine modification inside the small engine bay of a 4 cyl. car.

I don't know if this irony or not.
 

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