
10 Turbocharged classics for boost on a budget
- Porsche 944 (1985- 1991)
- Pontiac Trans am (1989)
- Ford Mustang SVO (1984-1986)
- Mazda RX-7 (1985-1991)
- Chevrolet Corvair (1962-1966)
Full Answer
What cars have turbo engines?
Dec 19, 2018 · 2019 Audi A3. The 2019 Audi A3 is typical of many compact sports sedans today, using a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine to produce 186 horsepower in its basic form, or up to 220 horsepower based on performance programming. The A3 sedan is available in front-wheel drive with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or with Audi’s legendary rally-bred …
Should I buy a turbocharged car?
Aug 04, 2020 · Here are some of the most affordable cars to use the turbocharger, and they range from practical to potent. 17) 2020 Audi A3. $33,300 | U.S. News Overall Score 7.5/10. The Audi A3 is a refined and...
Can any car have a turbo fitted?
Oct 18, 2018 · The one and only Jeep that manages to make the list is the 2018 Renegade. This is a Jeep even car enthusiasts can appreciate, boasting a 1.4-liter turbo engine that U.S. Newsreports can do 160 hp. The exterior may not turn heads, but the idea of a turbocharged engine in a stock Jeep is appealing enough.
What was the first car to have a turbo?
Jul 02, 2018 · The F40 is a race car with a gorgeous body and a terrifying performance that will inspire you to drive as fast as you can. They based it on the 288 GTO model. And the F40 was an improved version of a twin turbo, 2.9-liter V8 supercar with two seats. It also has a basic interior, manual gearbox and 480 screaming horsepower behind your ears.

Do stock cars have turbo?
The engines in today's NASCAR race cars produce upward of 750 horsepower, and they do it without turbochargers, superchargers or particularly exotic components.
Do all new cars have turbo?
Many modern cars offer turbocharged engines sized between 1.5 and 2.5 liters. But because they feature turbochargers, those engines can make the power of an engine that would normally be twice that size. So turbocharged cars still offer ample power, but only on demand.Jul 11, 2013
Do most cars have turbo?
They were once the preserve of only the fastest performance machinery, but now turbochargers are fitted to the majority of cars on sale.Jul 1, 2020
Is buying a car with a turbo engine a good idea?
“Generally speaking, turbocharging is a great idea. It's a smaller engine, but you're still getting a decent amount of power,” says Mike Quincy, autos editor at Consumer Reports. “The idea with a smaller engine, especially a four-cylinder, is that you're going to get decent fuel economy without giving up power.Sep 19, 2021
What car has a twin turbo V8?
The Cadillac Blackwing V8 (GM RPO LTA) is a twin-turbo DOHC V8 engine that was produced by the Cadillac Division of General Motors for use in its CT6-V between 2018 and early 2020....Cadillac twin-turbo V8.Cadillac Blackwing V8OverviewDisplacement4.2 L; 255.8 cu in (4,192 cc)Cylinder bore86 mm (3.39 in)Piston stroke90.2 mm (3.55 in)20 more rows
Does a turbo car use more fuel?
A turbocharger typically helps a car get better gas mileage because a smaller engine can be used to get the same amount of performance. Expect a turbocharged engine to be about 8% -10% more fuel efficient that the same engine that is not turbo equipped.May 6, 2020
What car has the biggest turbo?
Precision Turbo & Engine unveiled its massive 143-millimeter ProStock Tractor Turbocharger at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) show in Indianapolis, Indiana, and it's everything you never knew you needed. It is truly massive, but that won't matter too much because it's rated for up to 5,500 horsepower.Dec 19, 2019
Does Toyota have turbo?
Toyota Industries develops and manufactures turbochargers for internal-combustion engines (ICEs) for both automobile and industrial applications. Our well-designed turbochargers achieve higher performance and lower carbon emissions to contribute to realizing a sustainable society.
Does Toyota have any turbo cars?
At 142 yards, both of the twin-turbo V6 engine options for the 2022 Tundra are being built on the longest Toyota engine line in North America. The V6 Turbo line will produce a new engine every 58 seconds, with a capacity to build 18,000 engines each month.Oct 18, 2021
How many miles do turbos last?
In general, turbos last 150,000 miles on average (or about 50,000 miles on a typical car), but they can wear out over time depending on how hard you drive it and the original build quality.Dec 1, 2021
Is a 4 cylinder turbo as good as a 6 cylinder?
A V6 engine can produce low RPM torque and power better than a turbocharged four-cylinder, because more air enters the pistons, which creates even bigger explosions.Jun 2, 2021
How long do turbo engines last?
That increases power, but increases fuel consumption only while you're demanding that power -- rather than all the time, as a larger engine would. In the early days of turbos, they tended to last about 75,000 miles before failing in a dramatic cloud of black smoke.May 1, 2018
Why do cars use turbochargers?
Using a turbo allows an automaker to get the power output of a larger engine while burning less gasoline overall.
What engine does the 2019 Golf GTI have?
2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI. The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI is the heir to a long line of development. In fact, no compact performance hatchback has been on the market longer. VW uses its turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine to deliver up to 220 horsepower.
How much horsepower does a 2019 Subaru WRX have?
Subaru’s horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine design achieves 268 horsepower in the turbocharged WRX.
How many horsepower does a 2019 Hyundai Veloster have?
Three trim levels of the newly redesigned 2019 Hyundai Veloster small hatchback offer turbocharged power. All turbocharged Velosters use a 1.6-liter 201-horsepower engine. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and Hyundai’s seven-speed EcoShift dual clutch gearbox. With three turbocharged trims to choose from, you can get the Veloster Turbo with a cloth, leather, or combination interior depending on your budget.
How much horsepower does a 2.0 liter Cadillac have?
This downsized Cadillac features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine good for 272 horsepower and a standard eight-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. Brembo high-performance front brakes are standard.
What is the engine in a BMW 230i?
2019 BMW 230i. Another small luxury car that uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is the 2019 BMW 230i. The 2 Series is a two-door compact coupe design that uses BMW’s twin-scroll turbocharger to squeeze 248 horsepower out of its engine. Power is passed to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual.
How much horsepower does the Audi A3 have?
The 2019 Audi A3 is typical of many compact sports sedans today, using a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine to produce 186 horsepower in its basic form, or up to 220 horsepower based on performance programming. The A3 sedan is available in front-wheel drive with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or with Audi’s legendary rally-bred Quattro ...
What is a turbo Fiat 500?
Fiat 500 Turbo. The Fiat 500 is a small car designed for urban settings. It brings a small parking footprint, easy handling, and Fiat history to our list of cheap cars with turbo. Depending on whether you look for a hatchback or a convertible, a turbo engine is available in either the Abarth trim or the Turbo trim.
What engine does the Fiat 124 Spider have?
The Fiat 124 Spider is powered by a turbocharged engine across its entire lineup. Since this car was just introduced in 2017, we went with the Lusso trim so we could fit it into the price cap for our list.
What is the engine in the 2014 Dodge Dart?
Dodge introduced the Dart for the 2014 model year to replace the Caliber in the compact segment. The Dart is equipped with a turbo four in two trim levels, but the engine in the Turbo trim is a more better option. The Dodge Dart Turbo is powered by a 1.4L MltAR turbo four.
Is the Honda Civic a reliable car?
The Honda Civic has been a hot selling car across North America for decades. The Civic has been a reliable fuel sipper throughout its life time. The turbo 1.5L in the EX-L is no exception to that rule. The greatest aspect of a Honda Civic is that it is part of a select group that will hold their value for many years.
Is the Saab 9-5 Aero a turbo?
First off, the 9-5 is an executive car, so there is plenty of comfort inside. Second off, it’s cheap for a turbo car. The Aero is the top trim level of the Saab 9-5.
Is Audi A4 a turbo?
The Audi A4 is not as exciting as the TT Quattro we mentioned near the top of our list of cheap turbocharged cars, but it is still a very fun car to own. Additionally, you only have to go back a handful of model years in order to afford the top Prestige trim level.
Is Volvo a safe car?
For decades Volvo suffered from a mixed reputation. On one hand, the company was known for building ultra-safe cars. On the other, it was known for having some of the most drab styling in the industry. Not too long ago, the company redesigned all of its vehicles and eliminated drab styling from its repertoire.
How fast is a turbo?
But, the turbo is still good enough and 157 mph is a pretty decent top speed. They are harder to come by than some classic turbo cars, but you can be prepared to spend no more than $15,000 if you know where to look. Although, the value of them is now going up, so look fast.
How fast is the 3000GT VR-4?
And that turbo performance is pretty good too. The 3000GT VR-4 can reach speeds of around 160 mph and higher - if you are feeling brave, anyway! If you pick one of these up, you can do so for as little as $1,500!
Is the Ford Focus ST hot?
The Ford Focus ST is probably one of the very best hot hatchbacks. And it is powered by a very lovely, and gritty, 2.0-liter turbo that can pump out over 250 hp, well, 252 to be exact! What makes the ST so good is how enjoyable it is to drive for a relatively low price. Plus, it comes with plenty of comfort and tech gizmos even on older models.
Is a Dodge Dart Turbo a bad car?
An odd choice for this list? Well, you might think so. But the Dodge Dart Turbo is not a bad car, not at all. A nice little 1.4 liter MltAR Turbo gives you a solid 160 bhp which is enough to make the Dart a joy to drive, and heck you can pick one up for around $5,000 as well!
Is a turbo car quieter than a naturally aspirated car?
Of course, modern turbo cars are a lot more refined. And yes, they tend to be quieter than naturally aspirated machines - just look at Formula 1 and IndyCar. But they still sound awesome. And this list should convince you that you can get many amazing turbocharged cars for cheap.
Is the Golf R a turbo?
Back to a more modern machine and the Golf R is perhaps one of the best, small turbo hatchbacks that money can buy. It’s been around for a few years now and it gives you more of a fun factor than the Golf TDI, thanks to that turbo. And it’s a four-cylinder beast as well with 256 bhp to shout out of that exhaust.
What year was the first turbocharged car made?
Chevrolet Corvair (1962-1966) 1963 Chevrolet Corvair Turbo Mecum. The Corvair was oh-so-close to being the first turbocharged American production car, but its second-to-the-party status does not detract from its unique air-cooled, force-fed engine.
How much horsepower does a Buick GNX have?
The engine is same one found in the mighty Buick GNX, conservatively rated at 250 horsepower and 340 pound-feet. For comparison, the same year Firebird T/A with the 5.7-liter V-8 managed just 235 horsepower. Only 1500 of these boosted wonders left the factory, but prices have recently plateaued after months of decline, ...
How many cylinders does a Fox Body Mustang have?
Born from racetrack development, the highly capable four-cylinder Fox Body Mustang didn’t have the same draw that of track-focused Boss 302 from two generations prior. The 2.3-liter four-cylinder was pressurized by a single turbo and received a bump in horsepower thanks to the use of fuel injection and an intercooler.
What year was the Mitsubishi 3000GT?
1992 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Mecum. Mitsubishi went all-in when it made this technology-rich, all-wheel drive, twin-turbo coupe. The base 3000GT was pretty “meh” even in 1990 with 160hp sent only the front wheels, but the VR-4 was an entirely different beast.
What year was the Trans Am?
Pontiac Trans am (1989) To be specific, we are talking about the 1989 Turbo Trans Am. A few Firebirds came with a factory-installed turbo, but none do it as well as the 1989 model year. Don’t dismiss this as just a ’80s Pontiac with a six-cylinder.
What year was the Subaru Impreza STI?
Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2004-2007) The Japanese market was blessed with hot rodded flat-fours from Subaru for years before the WRX STI ever landed on U.S. shores. With that said, the STI was and still is a hit with U.S. enthusiasts, and provides a capable, AWD-based chassis with over 300 horsepower.
Is the 1985 Buick Regal Turbo a Grand National?
Buick Regal Turbo T-type (1983-1986) 1985 Buick Regal T-type Mecum. It’s not a Grand National, or a GNX, but if you can live with 90% of cachet of those two famous nameplates and no “Darth Vader” treatment, the Regal T-type is for you.
What is turbocharging in cars?
Turbocharging is an incredible tool for automakers. First popular in aircraft engines, the turbo would compress the thin air at high altitudes, improving performance. Turbochargers made their way into some cars in the 1950s, but only in a limited number of models. Reliability and “turbo lag” were common issues.
When did turbochargers become popular?
Through the years, more automakers adopted turbocharging, often in motorsports. In the ‘80s and ‘90s, forced induction became more popular, usually in high-performance road cars. Flash forward to today, and the turbocharger has become widely used across the auto industry.
Why do automakers use turbochargers?
Turbocharged engines are no longer just for sports cars. Automakers like Honda use them to downsize engines and to improve fuel economy as much as performance.
What is the engine in a Stinger?
The Stinger comes standard with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and even heated rear seats.</p> <p>The standard engine in the Stinger is a turbocharged-and-intercooled 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
What is turbocharger replacement?
Turbochargers: The Replacement for Displacement. Turbocharging is an incredible tool for automakers. First popular in aircraft engines, the turbo would compress the thin air at high altitudes, improving performance. Turbochargers made their way into some cars in the 1950s, but only in a limited number of models.
How much horsepower does the A220 have?
Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 188 horsepower and delivers peppy acceleration.
How many HP does a Dart Turbo have?
With a name like Dart Turbo, one expects Dodge to deliver on its promise. According to Autowise, there’s a 1.4-liter inside the Dart Turbo that can do 160 hp. Add to that an impressive style and the Dart Turbo makes a tempting offer.
What is the only Saab on the list?
The only Saab on the list is the 9-5 Aero model. The special thing about this lineup is you can look back years ago and still find turbocharged models. For example, a 2005 model might fetch for only a few thousand dollars on the used car market and comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine.
How much does a Volkswagen Golf 2018 cost?
Buyers can get a new one for just a little more than $20,000 , reports U.S. News, with used ones even cheaper.
What is the engine in the 2018 Jeep Renegade?
The one and only Jeep that manages to make the list is the 2018 Renegade. This is a Jeep even car enthusiasts can appreciate, boasting a 1.4-liter turbo engine that U.S. News reports can do 160 hp.
How much horsepower does a BMW 2.0 have?
This is a car that isn’t impossible to find for $20,000 or less on the used market. According to Jalopnik, the 2.0-liter version can do 180 horsepower, which is stellar for a luxury sedan. Plus, a BMW offers so much more than just power, with some versions including a 6.5 inch infotainment system, 9- speaker audio system and more.
What do drivers want in a car?
Drivers want better gas mileage, the latest and greatest luxury features, cool exterior designs and speed, speed, speed. Nothing speaks more to American car buyers than the ability to go fast in a production car that doesn’t need any tinkering.
Does a turbocharger make a car faster?
A fast car is no longer out of reach and exclusive to wealthy and affluent car buyers. Although a turbocharger will technically dampen the loud roars of a car engine, they do manage to make cars faster. That makes it a coveted and prized add-on to automobiles. Here are some of the best turbocharged vehicles available for less than $20,000, ...
Why do they use turbos?
So, manufacturers used turbos to keep the displacement down, as well as provide more fuel economy. And yet they could still enhance the performance and power. This is why there are so many turbocharged engines on the market from small compact cars to supersport exotics and hypercars.
What was the first turbocharged passenger car?
The Oldsmobile Jetfire is an important model for the automotive history that unfortunately never got the respect it deserved. This was the first turbocharged passenger car along with the Chevrolet Corvair Monza. However, Oldsmobile’s system was far more complex and powerful than Chevrolet’s so it deserves a detailed look.
What is the most unusual power plant Detroit has ever produced?
However, the most interesting model was the Corvair Monza. It was a two-door coupe or convertible, which was a performance car in the Corvair lineup. And it featured one of the most unusual power plants Detroit ever produced, the turbocharged boxer engine.
How much HP does a 900 turbo have?
Only a few models before had it as a regular production item. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder with forced induction produced 143 hp at first, but then all the way to 185 HP in later versions.
How much HP does a Corvair Monza have?
The heart of the car was the 2.4-liter, flat six engine with the turbocharger mounted on top. The result was 150 HP, but although it isn’t a big number, the small weight of the Corvair Monza produced a lively performance. At least, for the standards of the compact car class. Advertisement.
How much HP does a Jetfire V8 have?
For the standards of the day, the Jetfire V8 was state of the art technology and initially, the market was interested. The new V8 delivered 215 HP, which was one HP per cubic inch, making it one of the best performance cars of the day.
How fast can a 300 ZX go?
The twin-turbo V6 engine pumped out 300 HP Also, the 300 ZX could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds and top 150 mph.
What is the difference between a turbocharger and a supercharger?
Unlike a turbocharger, which is powered by the engine’s exhaust gases, a supercharger is powered directly by the engine via a belt. The most noticeable advantage of a supercharger over a turbocharger (other than the sound) is in the instant power that it can provide at nearly any RPM. Let’s take a look at 10 factory stock supercharged cars, ...
What is the first supercharged car?
The first car on our list of 10 factory stock supercharged cars is the midsize Volvo S90 T6 AWD. The brand’s flagship sedan, it makes use of a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that is both turbocharged and supercharged to the tune of 316 horsepower. Paired with the engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels, ...
What is the most powerful Jaguar?
The 2-door Jaguar F-Type SVR sports car is the most powerful car in Jaguar’s lineup, and one of the most powerful cars on our list of 10 factory stock supercharged cars. Powered by a 575-horsepower supercharged 5.0-liter V8 backed by an 8-speed automatic, all F-Type SVRs come standard with all-wheel drive. Accelerating to 60 miles per hour from a stop takes 3.5 seconds and F-Type SVR coupes can continue on to a top speed of 200 mph ( convertibles top out at 195 mph). Similar engines (though with slightly less power) are available in the fullsize XJ and XJR as well as the F-Type R.
What is the engine in a Jaguar XE?
The Jaguar XE R-Sport is a compact luxury car that is available with a roots-type twin vortex supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with 340 horsepower and an amazing exhaust note. The engine is only available with an 8-speed automatic transmission, though Jaguar does offer a choice between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive models.
How much horsepower does a V60 have?
The Polestar versions of Volvo’s compact S60 sedan and V60 wagon use a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that is turbocharged and supercharged to make 345 horsepower. In this application, the supercharger is used to improve throttle response at lower engine speeds, while the turbocharger takes over at higher engine speeds.
What is a CTS V?
The Cadillac CTS -V is an American sports sedan that has an engine and chassis that are good enough to beat the Germans at their own game. Power comes from a 640-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V8 and is sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission (unfortunately, a manual transmission is not offered). Not only is the CTS-V a rocket ship in a straight line, but the Magnetic Ride Control suspension means that it can more than hold its own in the corners as well. The combination of handling, luxury and power makes the CTS-V an obvious choice for our list of 10 factory stock supercharged cars.
How fast is the Lotus Evora?
Fitted with a supercharger, the 3.5-liter V6 now makes a very un-Camry-like 400 horsepower, which is enough to motivate the lightweight car sufficiently to get it to 60 miles per hour in just over four seconds and on to a top speed of 186 mph (174 mph in models equipped with an automatic transmission). The car’s light weight, stiff chassis and the typically good Lotus suspension setup make it excellent to drive, especially on twisty roads, but it's the engine that gets it onto our list of 10 factory stock supercharged cars.
