What Cars Use a Boxer Engine

Introduction

A boxer engine, also known as a horizontally opposed engine, is a type of internal combustion engine in which the cylinders are arranged horizontally on either side of the crankshaft. This design gives the engine a flat, compact shape, which can be advantageous in certain applications. Boxer engines are often used in sports cars and other high-performance vehicles, as they offer good balance and a low center of gravity.

History of Boxer Engines

The first boxer engine was invented by Karl Benz in 1896. Benz used this engine in his early automobiles, and it quickly became popular with other manufacturers. In the early 20th century, boxer engines were used in a wide variety of vehicles, including motorcycles, airplanes, and tanks. However, the popularity of boxer engines declined after World War II, as V-type engines became more common.

Advantages of Boxer Engines

There are several advantages to using a boxer engine. These advantages include:

* **Flat, compact design:** Boxer engines are much flatter than other types of engines, which makes them ideal for use in vehicles with limited space.
* **Low center of gravity:** The boxer engine’s low center of gravity helps to improve handling and stability.
* **Good balance:** Boxer engines have excellent balance, which reduces vibration and noise.
* **High power output:** Boxer engines can produce a high power output for their size.

Disadvantages of Boxer Engines

There are also some disadvantages to using a boxer engine. These disadvantages include:

* **Higher cost:** Boxer engines are more expensive to manufacture than other types of engines.
* **More complex design:** The boxer engine’s complex design can make it more difficult to service and maintain.
* **Lower fuel efficiency:** Boxer engines are typically less fuel-efficient than other types of engines.

What Cars Use a Boxer Engine

Boxer engines are currently used in a limited number of vehicles. These vehicles include:

* **Subaru Impreza**
* **Subaru WRX**
* **Subaru Forester**
* **Subaru Outback**
* **Porsche 911**
* **Porsche Cayman**
* **Porsche Boxster**
* **Volkswagen Beetle**
* **Volkswagen Golf**
* **Volkswagen Jetta**
* **Volkswagen Passat**
* **Alfa Romeo 4C**
* **Maserati Ghibli**
* **Ferrari F12 Berlinetta**

Conclusion

Boxer engines offer several advantages over other types of engines, including a flat, compact design, a low center of gravity, and good balance. However, boxer engines are also more expensive to manufacture, more complex to service, and less fuel-efficient than other types of engines. As a result, boxer engines are currently used in a limited number of vehicles.