Car enthusiasts everywhere have been awe-struck by the creations of classic automobile manufacturers for years. With powerful and reliable engineering, these classic cars and their engines have shaped our views on the automotive industry. Here, we take a closer look at the timeless technologies behind the classic car engine.

The Basis

At the core of all cars is the engine, usually an internal combustion engine (ICE). This type of engine operates by burning fuel, usually gasoline, in a controlled manner and using the resulting energy to move a piston and create mechanical power. This is how modern cars are powered; however, classic cars take this technology even further, and often use different types of classified engines depending on its purpose, such as a High Performance V8, a Flathead V8, or a Six Cylinder.

The Engine Block

In the classic car engine, the engine block is an integral component in terms of strength and stability. Usually constructed using cast iron, the engine block serves as the foundation of the engine and is designed to contain, support, and protect the internal components. While the design of the engine block may vary between different manufacturers, its purpose remains the same; to provide a strong, unified structure for the engine.

Heads Up

The cylinder head also plays an important role in classic car engines. This is another critical component as it serves multiple functions including containing the fuel mixture for combustion, heating and cooling the engine, and allowing the exhaust gases to escape. Often constructed with aluminum, magnesium alloy, or cast iron, the cylinder head is designed to provide maximum air flow and dependable performance.

The Gear Heads: The Camshaft and Crankshaft

The camshaft and crankshaft are two components at the heart of any classic car engine. The camshaft is responsible for opening and closing valves in the engine, while the crankshaft converts the up and down motion of the pistons into rotational motion which ultimately powers the car. The relationship between the camshaft and crankshaft is crucial, as they work in harmony to ensure the engine runs efficiently and effectively.

The Takeaway

The technology behind classic car engines can be complex and intricate, but understanding the components of the engine can help us better appreciate and understand these remarkable machines. By taking the time to inspect the engine parts and identify how they influence the performance of a classic car, we can gain insight into what makes them so special.