Comparison of a Supercharger vs. a Turbocharger in a Small Displacement Gasoline Engine Application

Supercharging and turbocharging can improve engine power and vehicle performance by boosting the intake manifold absolute pressure (MAP) above atmospheric pressure. This higher MAP results in increased charge densities which increase the maximum power available from the engine. A program to evaluate the overall system effects of supercharging and turbocharging has defined the differences and similarities between the two devices in a manner that supports the following conclusions.