These days as we (well actually, not all of us!) have the opportunity to enjoy production super cars such as the awesome Bugatti Veyron with its dazzling 1000hp plus power plants, have we really come that far forward in the evolution of the Otto cycle engine?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It’s a no brainer with the resounding ‘Yes’ response.
But in the back of the minds of many older folk, the high point in the evolution was surely Roll-Royce’s legendary Merlin engines that powered numerous World War II military aircraft from heavy bombers like the Lancaster and others, Mosquitos etc.
But best remembered are the many Spitfire variants along with the Mustang, in both its early Merlin powered models and later with its Packard manufactured versions.
Maybe it’s just the vast numbers of Merlins that we remember most, with production finally ceasing in 1950 with over 160,000 being delivered, and a further 55,000 Packard V-1650 being built in the United States.
The basic Merlin started life in 1933, and its liquid cooled V-12 churning out a lusty 740hp as the PV-12.
The Merlin B, built in 1935, saw a steady increase to 950hp, and with steady development through to 1937 finally exceeded the 1000hp milestone…. a truly magic moment.
World War II really kicked things along and by the time peace broke out in 1945 outputs of over 2000hp were a reality depending on applications.
The later high altitude version of the Merlin 100-Series achieved a remarkable 2650hp at 36lb boost, running on 150 octane fuel with water injection. Very impressive you would have to agree!
So back to the Veyron’s very impressive 1000hp plus from its glorious, state of the art, 8.0 litre V-16. Have we really come that far from the Merlins 1000-2000hp iconic V-12?
You betcha we have! Oh… did I forget to mention that the iconic Merlin was a whopping 27 litres… I’m sure you’ll get my drift!
