Reasons to get a more powerful car

I have been debating with myself this whole afternoon. Now let me share what I have thought of.

Now let me share the worries of getting a more powerful car.


Fuel consumtion: Many people worry that a more powerful car will consume more fuel, especially when fuel prices are rising nowadays.
My theory: It will be definitely worth it for smaller, lighter cars and carrying not only the drive most of the time.

Why: The engine is small and light cars will be very stressed out when the car is seated fully. Take for example a Honda Jazz (1.4L) Auto transmission which weighs 1037kg. If the car is seated with 4adults (200kg), it is carrying a load 20% of its weight. With its 81Bhp and 116Nm of torque, I doubt the driver would be light footing (probably flooring the pedal all the time).
Comparing with a Mitsubishi Colt Version R (1.5L turbo) Auto transmission weighing 1140kg with 154Bhp and 180Nm of torque, I believe the driver wouldn't feel much difference with the amout of power the car delivers.

Therefore, a Jazz will definitely consume much more pertrol when carrying a load than with no load. Whereas, the Colt version R consumption doesn't have a significant difference between load and no load. Big cars shouldn't affect much as the load/car weight percentage is smaller.

Some people might find it unfair for me to compare a N/A car with a turbo-charged car. But we are comparing a powerful car and a non-powerful car right?

This is just a general guide and the actual consumption have to be calculate on a car by car basis.


Maintainence: Maintainence of performance parts costing more.

My theory: Yes i agree. But the difference isn't as much as paper value.

Why: If both cars are driven the same way, normal parts will spoil faster or performance parts? The theory is the same as getting branded or more expensive clothes. Which one last longer? I would prefer more expensive stuffs as I feel more confident in them (will not fail me).

And if a normal engine is wacked and the powerful engine isn't wacked, which will last longer?


Comfort: Which will allow a more comfortable ride?

My theory: If comparing Jazz and Colt version R, i believe the difference is minimal.

Why: Although performance cars are known to have stiffer suspension for better handling, manufacturers nowaday makes the effort to produce comfortable performance cars. This is to enhance sales in the competitive market between cheaper and less powerful cars.


Ground clearance: Ground clearance of performance cars too low

My theory: No, unless you modify it.

Why: An example would be again, the Jazz and Colt version R. Jazz- 150mm, Colt version R- 140mm. How big is the difference? 10mm (1cm).


Other advantages of performance cars: Better handling, Lower centre of gravity, Weight well balanced, Bigger width of tyres, Better brakes, Better aerodynamics, Car not sluggish, Corners better (less body roll), Car body most likely reinforced (safer), Chassis has more tolerance, etc..