What is a Wankel engine? Learn about the design and operation of this automotive unit

Modern cars are based on various design solutions. Surely you have already heard about diesel engines, which are becoming more and more popular on Polish roads. However, some vehicles use slightly different technology. Explore the Wankel engine to find out how it works and how it can be fixed. What cars is it best suited for and what are its disadvantages? See for yourself and see if it is worth buying a car with such a drive!

What is a Wankel engine? What is the working principle?

The name of the unit (as in the case of diesel engines) comes from the designer. It was patented in 1963 by German mechanic Felix Wankel. The engine was used in the NSU Spider two-door sports convertible. Four years later it was used again. The Mazda car with it under the hood also developed high speeds. The Wankel engine is based on the action of a piston inside a cylinder. It's a fairly simple design, so there's no tendency to break or get stuck. Ignition inside the device occurs at maximum air compression.

Wankel engine design - what does it look like from the inside?

Wankel engines are simple in design. At the very center of the unit is the Reuleaux triangle. This is a geometric figure that is created on the basis of an equilateral triangle, but has rounded sides. It is thanks to this element that the engine works exactly as it should. In the very center you can find an eccentric rotor that allows the triangle to move. The device works in 4 stages. It:

• suction;
• compression;
• Job;
• exhaust.

Although the design is simple, this type of engine can generate a lot of power.

The Wankel block is silent?

If you are looking for a relatively quiet motor this might be a good choice for you. Why? Unlike other devices, the Wankel engine is valveless. And it is they that cause noise in the case of a traditional gasoline engine. However, the sound of vehicles moving in this way is quite characteristic and may be associated with car racing. What else is the catch? While the basic version of the engine is quiet, after modifications, the unit can make louder sounds.

Wankel engine car - what are the advantages?

What are the advantages of the Wankel engine? First of all, it is compactness. It takes up little space, so it works well in small cars. It also has few components, making it reasonably reliable and rarely broken. In addition, it almost does not vibrate and generates a lot of power in relation to its weight. It may not be very popular, but this is what lovers of comfortable and fast driving need, who appreciate unique design solutions.

What is the real power of this engine?

This is the engine with the best power to power ratio. 1,3 liters is enough for him to achieve as much as 231 hp, which allows you to quickly develop really high speeds. This good power-to-power ratio is sure to appeal to drivers who want to experience driving dynamics and solid acceleration in a short amount of time.

Wankel engine - combustion

High power does not always go hand in hand with efficiency. How long a car with such an engine will burn depends largely on the driving style and the weight of the vehicle itself. It is the weight that determines how much force is needed to accelerate the car. Unfortunately, the Wankel engine is considered quite fuel intensive. It is not the best choice for people who value eco-friendly and economical driving. After all, this is an engine used in sports cars!

Disadvantages of the Wankel engine

The Wankel engine has not only the advantages listed by us, but also disadvantages. Firstly, he has a problem with sealing the combustion chamber, which causes gas breakthroughs. High exhaust emissions don't help either. An extensive combustion chamber often causes thermal stresses inside. No wonder it is installed only in certain car models. So do not expect to find it, for example, in public transport.

Wankel engine overhaul - how much does it cost?

Make Wankel engines, unfortunately, are among the expensive ones, and since they are no longer mass-produced, it is becoming increasingly difficult to buy used ones. If you need to repair the heart of your car, you must take into account the cost from PLN 10 and up. Cars with these engines are now available only to enthusiasts who will go to great lengths to hear its distinctive sound and feel its power on the road. If repair costs do not scare you and you are passionate about them, then you can buy a car with such an engine.

In what cars can you find a Wankel engine?

If you are going to buy a car with a Wankel engine, you need to know which models are equipped with it. First of all, these units are still used by Mazda, which in 2018 announced that it would use this technology in ... electric motors. However, if you are dreaming of a truly historic car, look no further than the Mazda 110 S Cosmo. This is the first car with such an engine to go on sale. If you are a vehicle collector, you simply must have it with you.

The Wankel engine is a very interesting solution, but at the same time not very widely used. This, of course, translates into repair problems and much higher costs. However, if you are passionate about cars that can accelerate in a short time, you should consider buying a car with such a unit.