4. NATURAL ASPIRATION
While back in the day the turbochargers were performance vehicles’ trademark, today they also facilitate automakers to pass the strict emissions test.
While back in the day the turbochargers were performance vehicles’ trademark, today they also facilitate automakers to pass the strict emissions test. The smaller, more efficient engines are also a great option, marketing-wise, as they can be used without having to sacrifice the headline power figures.
However, on the drawback side, the clarity and instant throttle response that comes from a naturally aspirated engine gets lost – not great news for enthusiasts like us. Even though the contemporary turbo setups lack the N/A immediacy, at least they are smart enough to a reduce lag that used to be an intrinsic characteristic of turbocharged cars.
5. TURBO LAG
This might seem as a contradiction, but actually there is something thrilling about turbo lag. Of course, we highly appreciate automakers’ efforts to get rid of anything that might be deemed dangerous, but on the other hand, danger is still exciting and fun.
A few years back we had the great opportunity to test-drive a Lotus Carlton that gives off huge blobs of torque much later after you’ve pressed the throttle. At first it was a little bit frustrating, but while we were driving in the wet, we finally got in terms with its behavior and from that moment onwards the ride was an absolute blast! While going at full speed, we were enjoying the roundabouts, while also staying fully alert, coz’ seriously, we had idea when the back would kick out.
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