Guide to Understanding Vehicle Specs

Understanding Vehicle Specs in Boise, ID

It can be overwhelming when trying to decide on the right vehicle, which is why you can count on our team at the Dennis Dillon Auto Group to make your experience stress-free. We’re always ready to assist you through every step of the car-buying journey until you find the perfect vehicle that meets all your needs. To ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your unique preferences, we have put together a comprehensive guide that explains the most frequently used car terms. With our guide, you can experience a hassle-free car buying experience like never before and drive away with a car that you'll enjoy for years to come.

Common Car Terms You Should Know

• Wheelbase – This term refers to the distance between the front and rear wheels; this information is important for determining handling, maneuverability, and stability.
• Suspension – Your suspension is responsible for absorbing road imperfections and can provide you with a smooth driving experience.
• Transmission – The transmission determines how the power is transferred throughout the engine. There are two common types of transmission:
• Manual Transmission: This transmission type requires driver input to help change gears.
• Automatic Transmission: This transmission type does not need driver input to change gears.
• Reading Engine Descriptions – The engine type in your vehicle determines how much power the engine has. So, if your car is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, that means:
• Turbocharged: In a turbocharged engine, a turbine helps boost the power output by moving compressed air.
• 2.4-liter: The engine's displacement is measured in liters, which means that a 2.4-liter engine has a total volume of 2.4 liters.
• 4-Cylinder: A 4-cylinder engine refers to the number of cylinders in the engine, so this engine has four cylinders.
• Curb Weight —The curb weight is the amount that your vehicle weighs empty. It is used to determine its overall performance and the amount of cargo and passengers it can haul.
• MPG (Miles Per Gallon) — This term is important to note because it refers to the distance the vehicle travels on a single gallon of gas.
• Torque (lb-ft) — How fast your vehicle can accelerate from a stopped position.
• Horsepower (HP) — Your vehicle's horsepower determines its power; the more horsepower your car has, the more powerful it is.
• Drivetrain – The drivetrain is the distribution of power to the wheels. Here are the three most common drivetrains:
• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): The rear wheels receive the power and are commonly seen in high-performance vehicles.
• Front-wheel drive (FWD): The front wheel receives all the power, which provides better traction and handling.
• All-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD): All four wheels receive equal power and are typically seen in off-road vehicles.
• Towing Capacity – The maximum amount your vehicle can tow safely without risk of damage to your model.
• Turbocharged vs. Naturally Aspirated – Turbocharged automobiles have a turbine that moves compressed air into the engine for better acceleration and power. Naturally aspirated vehicles use atmospheric pressure to move the air into the engine.

Find Your Next Vehicle at Dennis Dillon Auto Group

Discover an amazing range of new and pre-owned vehicles at Dennis Dillon Auto Group. When you’re ready to purchase your next car, stop by our dealership. Our team is always ready to answer any questions you may have about the car-buying experience. We can't wait to help you find the perfect vehicle to fulfill your dreams.