An older style pushrod engine is certainly a dinosaur on the market, but the Chevrolet Corvette still uses this older style engine for the power we want.
This is the supercar that has to compete with the likes of the European brands but it’s a car that certainly captures our attention and gives us the fun and active driving we want on the road. Let’s take a look at why this car still uses the power of a pushrod engine.
Low-End Torque
Because pushrod engines make use of only two valves per cylinder they are able to create higher torque numbers at lower rpm levels. This is also a result of the impressive level of airflow that a pushrod engine can experience in order to produce the power desired. The restriction of the airflow and increase the velocity of the air the torque is increased to give more power at a lower number of rotations, which allows the car to reach higher speeds much faster.
Simplicity of the Design
The number of moving parts and the distance of travel for the parts in any vehicle makes for a more reliable design and process for creating the power you want and need when you drive. The pushrod engine uses only a single camshaft and has a short distance of travel to make it work properly, creating a much more reliable build and function than what you’d find if you chose to have an engine with more moving parts. In a double-overhead-cam engine, you have four camshafts rather than the one in a V8 engine.
Size and Weight
The type of camshaft used and the placement of the cam allows for a significant difference in size. The pushrod engine is smaller and able to offer a fit that will be able to be placed under the hood of the Corvette with ease. So far, all Corvette models have had the engine up front which has been a feat of engineering that has made the pushrod build the right one for many years. In addition to the size factor, the reduction in the number of parts allows the pushrod engine to be lighter than the other engines that are offered.
Engine Cost
One of the most important reasons the Corvette has been able to be a more affordable vehicle in its class than most other supercars is the cost of the engine that’s placed in the car. Not only will this engine style be more affordable for you to have the drive you want in a sports car, but it also helps you be able to afford more features and items used for the performance you want on the road. On average, the Chevrolet engines used in the Corvette and Camaro are around $400 cheaper than any of the overhead cam engines offered in other models.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.
