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The FA20 engine has garnered attention for its potential in the performance tuning community. With the right modifications, enthusiasts have been able to push the power output to impressive levels. This article explores how a turbocharged FA20 reached 330 horsepower on the streets, detailing the key components and tuning strategies involved.
Understanding the FA20 Engine
The FA20 is a flat-four engine developed by Subaru, known for its lightweight design and low center of gravity. It is commonly found in models such as the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86. Here are some characteristics of the FA20 engine:
- 2.0-liter displacement
- Direct fuel injection
- Boxer engine layout
Turbocharging the FA20
Turbocharging is one of the most effective ways to increase the horsepower of an engine. For the FA20, adding a turbocharger can significantly enhance its performance. Here are the steps taken to achieve 330 hp:
- Installing a high-performance turbocharger
- Upgrading the intercooler
- Enhancing the exhaust system
- Utilizing a standalone engine management system
Key Components for Performance
To reach the target of 330 hp, several critical components were upgraded or replaced. Each part plays a vital role in ensuring the engine can handle the increased power. Here’s a closer look at these components:
Turbocharger
The choice of turbocharger is crucial. A larger turbo can provide more airflow, but it must be matched with the engine’s characteristics. In this case, a turbocharger designed for quick spool-up and high efficiency was selected.
Intercooler
An upgraded intercooler helps to reduce the intake air temperature, which improves performance and prevents knock. A front-mount intercooler was installed to maximize cooling efficiency.
Exhaust System
A high-flow exhaust system was implemented to reduce back pressure and enhance exhaust flow. This modification allows the turbocharger to operate more effectively, thus contributing to increased horsepower.
Engine Management
To optimize the engine’s performance, a standalone engine management system was utilized. This system allows for precise tuning of fuel maps and ignition timing, which is essential when running higher boost levels.
Tuning for Performance
After installing the necessary components, the next step is tuning the engine. Proper tuning ensures that the engine runs efficiently and reliably at higher power levels. Here are the tuning aspects that were focused on:
- Boost levels
- Fuel-to-air ratio
- Ignition timing
- Throttle response
Real-World Testing
Once the tuning process was complete, real-world testing commenced. The vehicle was taken to a dyno for initial power runs, followed by street testing to evaluate performance under various conditions. The results were impressive:
- Peak horsepower: 330 hp
- Torque: 320 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
Conclusion
The journey to achieving 330 horsepower from a turbocharged FA20 engine showcases the potential for performance tuning in modern vehicles. With the right components and careful tuning, enthusiasts can unlock significant power gains, making the FA20 a formidable engine on the streets.