Turbocharger and Supercharger, the Difference and Drawbacks

So if you have a newbie fascination with cars, here is a little 101 that might keep you from looking like a complete fool if you open your mouth to join in a conversation.

Turbochargers- Basically it uses wasted exhaust gases to turn a compressor which increases the amount of air that enters the combustion chamber. More air mixing with more fuel equals more power per ignition cycle. The turbo is somewhat more efficient than a supercharger because it uses waste exhaust; it also isn’t running all the time. Essentially it gives your smaller and lighter engine the same muscle as a larger car.

Superchargers- These are being constantly driven by a belt off of the crankshaft so long as the engine is running. This turns the supercharger’s compressor which forces more air into the cylinder. While less efficient because it’s always running, the advantage is the instantaneity of results. Turbochargers can have a lag time as they require a buildup of exhaust gases to rotate the turbine.

Well modern technology has diminished a turbochargers lag time considerably. Twin turbochargers used in Ford’s EcoBoost V6 are tuned to different rpm levels. There are pros and cons to either technology as well as your own personal preference, so research before actually trying to fit one of these in your car. Turbochargers are also expensive because they’re built to be heat resistant.