Nissan's New 88lb, 400 HP Engine!

[sptcoupe]

Check out this new 3 cylinder motor from Nissan. About the size of your roll-aboard suitcase and just 88lbs. But 400 HP!

http://www.gizmag.com/nissan-zeod-rc-engine/30611/

[dmwhiteoak]

I want one! Then need to figure out how to mate it to a Spider.

[RRoller123]

Or a go-Kart??

Or better yet, an X1/9.....

[dreavis]

Very interesting that you posted this because I am a long time gizmag reader and saw this article long before I owned my Fiat. It seems like this would be the answer to a lot of people's dreams. It has more horsepower than a Spider should, but neatly fits into even the smallest engine compartment.

When I first read the article I assumed that Nissan was moving toward a combination of this small gas engine and an electric motor to get close to the 650 HP range at a very light weight.

BTW - I thought the X1/9 was a go-kart!?

[TX82FIAT]

Looks like a cool engine. The turbo extends well above the head, I did not see how tall it was with the Intake/Turbo/Exhaust set up. Still, hard to believe that the reduction in friction can be significant enough to generate 400HP out of a three cylinder. Another cool engine in development is the Duke Axial five cylinder with three spark plugs and the firing pattern similar to a six cylinder with low vibration.

I think the biggest question with these new designs will be durability. A three banger putting out 400 HP or the friction/wear associated with a true axial engine. Just glad to see some more efficient designs coming out so we are not all electrified in the next few years. I still like the novel idea of being able to drive anywhere needed on a moments notice with a tank refill only taking a few minutes after +- 400 miles.

http://www.gizmag.com/duke-engines-axial/33631/