[toddshotrods]

I actually love four cylinders, especially the thought of one with incredible horsepower. I remember reading an article in one of the major rags back in the eighties about building a Ford 2.3, Pontiac 2.5, or Chrysler 2.2. Back then four cylinders were frowned upon; because gas was cheap and American manufacturers were more focused on V8's. Now that gas prices have soared beyond reason, and foreign manucaturers have proven the potential of an inline four, American manufacturers and consumers have realized the value of running "half an engine".

I've seen a few traditional hot rods with them (usually Quad 4's) that were pretty nice, so I started thinking seriously about building one again. It would be fun to have a hot rod that gets the gas mileage of a modern economy car, but has decent performance (light weight). The big question, however, is:

What would be an appropriate exhaust note, and how would you get it?

For example, what did the old Offy four-bangers sound like? I know I've heard an four-cylinder Model T before, but I can't remember what it sounded like. I think it was kind of quiet. I've thought about a split header (4-into-2), with true duals; but this is defeating the performance potential.

Anyone have one they can make an audio recording of and share?

[seriousracer]

inmo you will never make a newer engine sound like an offey or even better yet a novi.....

the were way to diffrent...
but boy do they sound good.

a 2.3 ford is a cool piece with lots of mods readily avaible... and would probably b the closest to an old offey..

by the way i am using a 2.0 turbo in my t bucket...

[toddshotrods]

Hmmm, I thought I had posted a reply. Guess not?!

A turbo four in a T-bucket sounds like fun!

I am not trying to make a modern four sound like an on Offy. I would just like to have a sound that is more complementary to the style of vehicle. I would like to hear a vintage four-banger (preferrably a performance/race motor) just to get an idea of what they sounded like.

[poncho62]

Although a bit finicky.........The Olds Quad Four makes lots of power.

[Hippie]

Got to drive a '78 Mustang Indy Pace Car with a Turbocharged 2.3, 4 speed and 3.90 posi back in the day. That little sucker HAULED!

[steevil]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7Vbe_qgX04

bones stock 2.3 with full exhaust.

It sounds much better uncorked but I don't have any video or sound bytes.

[toddshotrods]

Are there any movies about vintage racing that would have an Offy-powered car in it? I am really curious about the sound. I have been Googling for more information, and saw reference to the "unGodly sound".

[tfeverfred]

Try this. I'm not sure what's in it, but it seems authentic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySpwRNESCXY

[toddshotrods]

Thanks tfever. That's the kind of audio I need. A split header, with the right mufflers, would probably work to produce a similar type vintage sound. I wonder what it would cost in power?

[tfeverfred]

Originally Posted by toddshotrods

Thanks tfever. That's the kind of audio I need. A split header, with the right mufflers, would probably work to produce a similar type vintage sound. I wonder what it would cost in power?

Old saying: Speed cost money, how fast do you want to go?

[seriousracer]

not close... but pretty .. was that a stutz?
let me see if i have the vidio of hte offey from ault park concourse.
it was an indy car.
wife was supposed to film it whilei was accepting an award.

[seriousracer]

although a minture it sound close...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzjJYX74ZZE

[seriousracer]

i thought there wqas a video on this site...
http://www.milleroffy.com/Photo%20&%...ery.htm#Sounds

also need to check tams old racecar site...while your there check out the
campbell speceal .. i am proud of that car..

[toddshotrods]

Thanks guys! That miniature sounds almost exactly like an older GS1100 (4-valve) Suzuki. Gotta listen to some of the others...

[toddshotrods]

Wow is all I can say - and thanks! I can't believe a four cylinder can sound like THAT!!!