Bachman Subaru Blog

Created in 1897 by Karl Benz, a “contra engine” was a drive mechanism in which two horizontally opposed cylinders turned a single crankshaft simultaneously. The idea for the Subaru Boxer engine was born when Subaru was first forging its name in the automobile industry. Developed and fitted to the particular design of Subaru cars almost six decades ago, the engine has become the trademark model in virtually all Subaru models today. This revolutionary mechanism brings vast benefits.

Contribution to Vehicle Stability and Handling

Image by Julien Doclot | Licensed with Unsplash License

The primary advantage of the horizontally opposed architecture of the Subaru Boxer engine is its contribution to the vehicle’s stability and handling. This configuration balanced the cylinders’ dynamic masses, as the timing of the pistons in such an opposed setup meant any movements generated by the power and compression strokes were efficaciously counterbalanced by the respective piston movement in the contrary direction.

Safety

Although Subaru prioritizes speed and performance above all else, it never jeopardizes its customers’ safety. The operation is simple: the power unit is shorter than a V-shaped or general series engine. Consequently, in the case of an accident, it travels under the car and escapes the cabin.

Subaru does not rely on theory alone: it has one of the greatest crash safety ratings of any manufacturer. And the Subaru boxer engine is likely a major contributor to this.

Lower Center of Gravity

As the cylinders of the Boxer engine lay on their sides, the engine’s total height is substantially smaller than the more common ‘inline’ engine, in which all the pistons travel in the same fashion in a north–south layout. This results in a low center of gravity, as the tires are firmly lodged on the road surface due to less weight movement from the inside wheel to the outside wheel when turning, ultimately improving the vehicle’s handling and stability.

High Performance

The Boxer engine’s flat design and horizontal mechanism facilitate synchronization with the gearbox and driveshaft. As the force of the piston goes directly to the gearbox, crankshaft, and wheels, the Boxer engine requires fewer transmission components than an I or V design. This wastes less power through the drive gears, improving the engine’s power and efficiency.

Durability, Dependability, and Weight

As the cylinders in the Subaru Boxer engine are positioned on their sides in opposing directions with a similar crankshaft, the engine is relatively lightweight. Boxer engines also have an all-aluminum crankcase and cylinder heads to promote weight reduction. This not only increases the power-to-weight ratio and, therefore, driving and environmental performance, but it also enhances handling and stability.

What Makes the Subaru Boxer Engine Unique?

The Subaru Boxer engine draws inspiration from aviation engine design and is unlike any other engine found in a typical car. Unlike conventional engines, which contain pistons that travel straight up and down, the pistons in the Subaru Boxer engine move parallel to the ground in the opposite direction and are set flat. The distinctive punch-counter-punch movement is smoother by design, and the horizontal and low layout is sturdier and more balanced. Further, the engine’s alignment facilitates the efficient transmission of power straight into the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Inline Engine vs. Subaru Boxer Engine

Pistons in inline engines move straight vertically up and down and stay upright. This implies the engine block has a greater center of gravity and is taller than a Subaru Boxer engine. Due to their upright configuration, inline engines shake more. These engines are frequently installed transversely, meaning it’s necessary to install extra components in the inline engine to provide all-wheel drive. The inline engine makes several 90-degree rotations before reaching the wheels. This complicates the system beyond what is conceivable with a Subaru Boxer engine, making it difficult to achieve symmetry.

V-Type Engine vs. Subaru Boxer Engine

A V-type engine’s pistons operate at a perpendicular angle to one another. The pistons in a V-type engine are more susceptible to side-to-side oscillation, even without the horizontally opposed movement of the Subaru Boxer engine. The configuration of the crankshaft in the Boxer and V-type engine is fundamentally different and causes the piston to travel in the opposite direction.

As the V-type design frequently rests higher in the car, it can increase the car’s center of gravity. For this reason, the V-type engine’s performance may not be as smooth as the Subaru Boxer engine. Handling may also be less responsive and tight. Further, the increased vibration may necessitate the addition of extra elements to steady the engine, putting pressure on the weight and size.

Battery-Based or Hybrid System vs. Subaru Boxer Engine

Although battery-powered or hybrid drive systems offer significant advantages, they also come with drawbacks. A hybrid or electric car frequently sacrifices capability and adaptability. The Subaru Boxer engine boosts the car’s ability to handle rough roads and its towing capacity. Subaru is also interested in developing engines that burn efficiently and cleanly. The Legacy, Outback, and Forester achieve comparable EPA air pollution ratings to hybrid automobiles in their class. Further, by using a traditional yet clean technique, Subaru avoids the environmental concerns of producing batteries and dumping chemical leftovers.

Which Subaru Has the Boxer Engine?

Subaru characterizes the H-shaped, flat, opposed-piston design as superior to any other power unit, and it’s difficult to dispute this claim. Its distinct power capabilities enable each model to perform to its maximum capacity on the road. The engine also contributes to each car’s fuel efficiency, ensuring the vehicle runs well and does not guzzle petrol when pushed to its limits.

Subaru has used the Boxer engine since 1966 and will continue to do so in the future. Subaru is the only automaker worldwide to use the Boxer engine across its lineup, specifically in the Forester, Crosstrek, Impreza, Outback, WRX/STI, Legacy, and BRZ models. It’s not difficult to see the Subaru Boxer engine in action. All drivers in the Louisville and Kentucky area can book a test drive in their preferred Subaru model at Bachman Subaru to see what all the fuss is about.

Learn more about anything Subaru, and get yours now at Bachman Subaru.