Originally Posted By: madRiver
Originally Posted By: JHZR2
I've long said that no car NEEDS more than about 130-140 hp. I base that on a half million miles of use of MB diesels down to as low as 67 hp. I can cruise fine in my 67 hp, 3400lb 240D. That includes merging and accelerating, which some think demands a v6 "for safety".
It's also why hybrid and turbos are great. A little extra when needed, less the rest of the time, and perhaps none when stopped.
Nothing says the poor Yaris was at WOT ridiculously raucous.
The 240D has something that makes up for low HP rating, ample torque at low rpm due to diesel engine. Not exactly valid to state 67HP as reasonable # without that major tid bit....
The idea of V6 required is not as valid in most folks minds given sales pretty low in top selling vehicles when an option. 4 cylinders have come a long way offering incredible MPG with power curves at great starting prices($20k). Hybrid/turbo stuff is still pricey.
That's why I said 130 hp. So there can be enough torque.
We took a 97 Plymouth breeze with the 132 hp, 2.0 engine to 200k-ish miles as a family car, so I've got some experience with gassers. Ditto with my 318i, though it was lighter.
Both are faster than my 240 with its "ample" torque