Downsizing, or reducing engine displacement, is a trend that has gained momentum in the automotive industry in recent years. Despite the initial reluctance of enthusiasts, several manufacturers have proven that it is possible to combine performance and efficiency with smaller displacement engines. Discover 10 sports cars that perfectly illustrate this trend.
BMW M5 (F10): the power of the twin-turbo V8
When BMW unveiled the M5 F10, equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 in place of the legendary naturally aspirated V10 of the previous generation, purists cried foul. However, with its 560 horsepower and 680 Nm of torque, the M5 F10 outperforms its predecessor in terms of pure performance.
Capable of going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, the M5 F10 proves that downsizing, combined with efficient turbocharging, can give rise to models that are both powerful and efficient. In addition, its V8 delivers a unique sound that has won over fans of the brand.
Ford GT (2016): the American with EcoBoost engine
When Ford introduced the new generation of its GT supercar in 2016, the use of a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 surprised many enthusiasts. However, thanks to extensive turbocharging and careful optimization, this engine delivers no less than 656 horsepower and 746 Nm of torque.
Combined with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and carbon fiber bodywork, this powertrain allows the Ford GT to achieve class-leading performance:
The Ford GT (2016) is proof that a six-cylinder engine, properly optimized, can compete with the best supercars on the market.
McLaren Artura: the V6-powered hybrid
McLaren, renowned for its twin-turbo V8 engine models, has reached a milestone with the Artura. This supercar introduces an all-new 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, combined with a plug-in hybrid system. The unit develops a combined power of 680 horsepower and 720 Nm of torque.
The Artura takes advantage of its hybrid architecture to offer exceptional performance:
With this model, McLaren demonstrates that it is possible to combine performance, efficiency and driving pleasure with a six-cylinder hybrid engine.
Ferrari 296 GTB: the revival of the V6
Ferrari, faithful to its tradition of high-speed naturally aspirated engines, created a surprise by unveiling the 296 GTB. Equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 combined with a plug-in hybrid system, this supercar develops a combined output of 830 horsepower and 740 Nm of torque.
The 296 GTB makes excellent use of its powertrain to deliver top-notch performance:
With this model, Ferrari proves that downsizing can be successfully applied to supercars, without sacrificing performance and driving sensations.
Porsche 918 Spyder: the high-performance hybrid
The Porsche 918 Spyder, presented in 2013, marked a turning point in the history of supercars. Equipped with a 4.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 combined with two electric motors, it develops a combined power of 887 horsepower and 1,280 Nm of torque.
Thanks to its innovative hybrid architecture, the 918 Spyder displays breathtaking performance:
Porsche was able to take advantage of downsizing by combining a reduced-displacement V8 engine with high-performance hybrid technology, thus paving the way for a new generation of supercars.
These five iconic models perfectly illustrate the potential of downsizing in the sports car and supercar segment. By combining cutting-edge technologies, advanced optimization and innovative architectures, manufacturers have been able to develop models that are both high-performance, efficient and capable of providing unique driving sensations. There is no doubt that this trend towards reducing displacement, far from being a brake, will constitute a driver of innovation for years to come.
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