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1.8MPi versus the VVC |
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1.8MPi versus the VVC |
What is the difference between the two engines?
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Everyone knows that the VVC engine is superior to the standard 1.8i, but
how superior? In this illustration, I have compared like with like: a 1.8i
and a VVC car both fitted with K&N 57i 'performance'
cone filters. And the results are quite revealing. Below 3,250 rpm, the 1.8i actually produces more power and torque than does the VVC. Perhaps this goes some way to explain why the latter car has the lower overall gearing? Between 3,250 and 4,750 the two cars are almost perfectly matched; the power and torque curves are practically super imposed upon each other. Above 4,750 rpm, the VVC starts to really stamp its authority, ultimately going on to produce close to 150 bhp at the rev limiter compared to a mere 120 bhp @ 5,750 rpm for the 1.8i. [All power figures quoted are at the road wheels; for a fly wheel estimate, add approx. 8 bhp] How often do you use the upper part of the rev range on your car? Not very often is the answer, which means that in every day use, the two cars are very evenly matched. |
