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?
A turbo four in a T-bucket sounds like fun! :thumbup:
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.
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".
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?
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?
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.
hmmmm... a four banger? why not something like a straight-six or a buick straight-eight? It might sound good, but I think lake pipes would be a good choice, like the picture.
Now that I know it is possible to have a great sounding four-cylinder hot rod, I started putting some thought into what engine I would use. I haven't decided to do this yet, but am giving it serious consideration. I realize that I probably won't be able to replicate the sound of an Offy, but believe that it is possible to come up with something appropriate. Of course, starting with the right foundation would save a lot of work.
The Ford 2.3 sounds like it has a decent exhaust note to start with, and I know that it has a long history of being hotrodded, but I never seem to do things the easy way. Ditto with the Quad 4; even though it is supposed to look a lot like an Offy, when stipped of its factory covers and crap. I always have to bang my head against the proverbial brick wall, sailing in "uncharted" waters"...
One engine I have always been intrigued with is Pontiac's "half an eight" used in the 61-63 Tempest. It is basically the right side of a 389, so parts shouldn't be an issue. I have never seen one up close, or heard one run though.
Besides sounding great, the Offy is also a great looking engine...
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