3 cylinder VS 4 cylinder: Which One Is Better?

As we know cars cannot run without engines, and the cylinder is an essential part of these engines. It is a kind of chamber where the power is produced by the combustion of fuel. How amazing it is that each part works in a balanced euphony. So, it is important to know about the car engine cylinder so that you can choose your car based on that.

When it comes to engines, there is a long discussion about the two most popular ones - the 3 cylinder vs 4 cylinder engine. Though the 4-cylinder engine is the first choice for every car enthusiast, the 3-cylinder engine is also gaining popularity because of its great performance and fuel efficiency. Suzuki has also revealed that its Japan spec swift of 2024 will be equipped with a new three-cylinder engine.

There are a lot of differences between 3 cylinders and 4 cylinders but the main difference between the two is the number of cylinders they have. Let’s get into more detail about the cylinder engines to have a better understanding of both cylinders.

What are 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines?

A 3-cylinder engine is a combustion engine with three cylinders. Small cars, compact SUVs, and certain motorcycles use this engine. They are suitable for compact cars because of their lighter and smaller weight.

A 4-cylinder engine, on the other hand, is a combustion engine with four cylinders. These engines are mostly used for sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and trucks. They are considered versatile power plants because they provide a perfect balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and cost.

Advantages of 3-cylinder engines

1) Low cost

In the comparison of 3 cylinder vs 4 cylinder, 3-cylinder engine is less expensive as compared to the 4-cylinder engine because it is produced at a lesser price which makes it a more affordable, reliable, and efficient choice for the drivers.

2) Lighter weight

As the three cylinder engine is smaller and lighter in weight, it makes the best choice for compact cars and other vehicles. It contributes to fewer emissions. So, the engine with 3 cylinders will have lesser weight than the engine with four cylinders.

3) Enhanced fuel efficiency

Its engine provides better fuel efficiency. It is perfect for the city driving experience because it needs less fuel than the larger engine to produce the same amount of power.

4) Compact size

The 3-cylinder engine provides more space around the cabin bay because of the one-less cylinder. It is easy to design the car’s interior and structure more perfectly because it provides more room to the manufacturers.

5) Quirky sound

It has a distinctive sound owing to its inconsistent firing sequence which many enjoy. This car engine cylinder provides the best driving experience to all the drivers out there who are utilizing it.

Disadvantages of 3-cylinder engines

1) Less power and torque

The 3-cylinder engine has less power and torque than the 4-cylinder engine.  As it does not provide as much power as large engines, they feel underpowered during heavy loads and high-speed driving.

Their performance gap is narrower but with the advancement of technology, the newer 3-cylinder engines are almost equal with 4-cylinder engines.

2) Vibrations

Sometimes the passengers can experience a little discomfort because it produces more vibrations than the 4-cylinder engine.

3) Higher engine noise

The engine noise can occur because it cannot produce the same amount of power as large engines which can lead to a less refined experience for the drivers.

The 3-cylinder engine has one less cylinder and it needs to work better in every four sectors, compression, intake, power, and exhaust to have a better-refined experience.

Advantages of 4-cylinder engines

1) More power

The 4-cylinder engine has more power and torque than the 3-cylinder engine. For large cars and other vehicles that require more performance, this is the best option available.

With advancements in technology, the 4-cylinder engine will have more enhanced performance for better driving experience.

2) Refined engine performance

Due to its highly refined engine, it can work continuously for an extended period. It has better-refined engine performance because it has four sectors equal to the number of cylinders.

Their operations are more harmonious and do not produce any engine noise as compared to 3-cylinder engines.

3) Smooth operation

In the comparison of 3 cylinder vs 4 cylinder, 4-cylinder engine operations are smoother than the 3-cylinder engine which makes the ride comfortable for the occupants. They provide less vibration because of their balanced design.

4) Suitable for high speed

The 4-cylinder engine is suitable for higher speeds even so when they are properly designed and performance-tuned.

A car with this engine can sustain high speeds. The 4-cylinder engine’s power output and efficiency have been improved because of various factors such as turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and a sophisticated engine management system.

5) Equal distribution

Equal distribution is all about the 4-cylinder engine power output and combustion efficiency. It distributes power evenly because of no lag in firing order. It also performs wonderfully at lower and higher RMPs.

It achieves equal distribution which results in smooth operation, optimal performance, and reliability.

Disadvantages of 4-cylinder engines

1) More costly

The 4-cylinder engines require extra components to make the engine. They cost more to produce one extra cylinder and more complex designs which makes them more costly than the 3-cylinder engine.

2) Lower fuel economy

As the 4-cylinder engine is larger and has a more complex design, they have lower fuel economy compared to the 3-cylinder engine.

3)  Balancing challenges

To make the 4-cylinder engine smoother then it will require mindful balancing of the components which can result in more complexity in the design and manufacturing process.

Difference between the 3-cylinder engine and 4-cylinder engine

The difference between the 3-cylinder engine and the 4-cylinder engine depends on the factors which include the needs and preferences of the purchaser. The 3-cylinder engine is comparatively lighter and smaller than the 4-cylinder engine.

The 3-cylinder engine has less power and torque but has better fuel efficiency, on the other hand, the 4-cylinder engine has more power and torque but is more expensive. While the 3-cylinder engine is best for compact and smaller cars, the 4-cylinder engine is better suited for larger cars.

3-cylinder or 4-cylinder: Which is better?

The answer to the question “Which one is better” entirely depends on the priorities of the vehicle owner. It depends if they want better fuel efficiency and want to use it for city driving or if they want versatility and performance for their driving. So, if they go for the first one, then the 3-cylinder engine is best and for the second one, the 4-cylinder engine is best suited.

Another thing to consider is what kind of driving experience they want. That is why though 3-cylinder engine and 4-cylinder engine have their pros and cons which one suits you best essentially depends on the needs and preferences of the vehicle owner.

Conclusion

Now you will have a clear and better understanding of the 3 cylinder vs 4 cylinder engine. But it generally comes down to your priorities as both engines cater to different needs.

These car engine cylinders are suitable for different vehicle types and driving conditions. So, have the car you want along with the engine that you feel more comfortable and satisfied with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 How long do 4-cylinder engines last?

Ans 4-cylinder engines will last 5 Minutes or over 100 years, according to how it is treated.

Q2 Is Nexon 3-cylinder or 4-cylinder?

Ans Nexon is 3-cylinder.

Q3 Why are 3-cylinder engines becoming popular?

Ans They are becoming popular because of their lighter and smaller engine and fewer moving parts which can return better fuel efficiency.