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noelsaw
05-22-2000, 03:57 PM
Subaru recently announced the 2001 Outbacks with their first 6-cylinder engine used in a sedan. While the engines are horizontally opposed versus a V6, some of the points they mentioned remind of features found in the latest Maxima VQ. I can see it as a possibility since Nissan partially owned Fuji (Subaru's parent) and you can see a lot of Nissan interior parts in current Subarus. What do you guys think?

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial[/img]quote:</font><HR>
All-New High-Ouput Engine.
The horizontally opposed layout gives the Subaru H6-3.0 powerplant inherent smoothness without the need for power-robbing balance shafts used in some V-6 engines. Liquid-filled engine mounts contribute to the smooth, quiet ride. The horizontally opposed design also provides a lower center of gravity which enhances handling and performance.

The new Subaru high-output H6-3.0 features an aluminum crankcase, double-overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. A direct ignition system uses an individual ignition coil for each cylinder, eliminating the need for a distributor and sparkplug wires. The engine displaces 2,999 cubic centimeters
(183 cubic inches) and produces 212 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 210 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. By 2,200 rpm, the Subaru H6-3.0 engine is already producing a substantial 174 lb.-ft. of torque, providing quick response at lower speeds.

The H6-3.0 produces nearly 30 percent more horsepower and torque than the 165-horsepower 2.5-liter H-4 in the Outback Limited model, yet is only 20 millimeters (0.8-inch) longer than that four-cylinder engine. Like all Subaru models the new Outback H6-3.0 models run on regular fuel, but 91 octane is
recommended for maximum performance.

Dual-Stage Intake And Exhaust.
The new Subaru H6-3.0 uses a variable intake manifold and a dual-stage muffler to optimize power delivery throughout the engine speed range. Low-speed and mid-range power have not been compromised for high-rpm power, and vice versa. The variable intake manifold features an induction control valve that provides two intake characteristics. Below 3,700 rpm the valve remains closed to create a long intake runner length, helping to boost low-end and mid-range power. When the valve opens above 3,700 rpm, the manifold creates a "scavenging" or light supercharging effect, allowing each cylinder to catch high-pressure waves of intake air bouncing off the opposite side of the manifold.

A mechanical valve in the rear muffler varies muffler volume to help enhance engine power in different speed ranges. At lower engine speeds (around-town driving, for example), the valve remains closed to provide a smaller-volume muffler chamber. The resulting level of exhaust back-pressure enhances power at these speeds. When exhaust pressure reaches about 22 psi -- which occurs at about 2,400 rpm -- the valve opens to allow exhaust
gas through an additional chamber. The resulting increased muffler volume reduces exhaust back-pressure, enhancing power at higher speeds. Muffler valve operation does not affect the noise level.
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[This message has been edited by noelsaw (edited 05-23-2000).]

ChuckH
05-22-2000, 10:02 PM
I can't comment on where they got the technology, but I thought Subaru had a flat 6 option in the XT coupe at one point. Am I wrong? Scoobies aren't my specialty, so forgive me if I'm way off base! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum/images/icons/smile.gif

Charles

ChuckH
05-22-2000, 10:13 PM
Oops, I wanted to try adding a link. I just add it right into my message? Let's see if this works! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum/images/icons/smile.gif
http://photos.yahoo.com/crash3085

**DONOTDELETE**
05-23-2000, 04:13 AM
The Subaru SVX had the flat-6 in the engine bay. Weird windows(window vents) and overpriced so it wasn't a good seller.

noelsaw
05-23-2000, 06:26 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial[/img]quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Nismo:
I don't know how patent law works in other countries but I'd say the dual-length intake runners and variable capacity exhaust must have come from a shared technology agreement between Nissan and Subaru. Guess we'll just have to wait and see if any other automakers start using this technology.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

It was probably a technology sharing/licensing agreement since the two automakers have a long history together.

noelsaw
05-23-2000, 06:36 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial[/img]quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by 99ESMAX:
The Subaru SVX had the flat-6 in the engine bay. Weird windows(window vents) and overpriced so it wasn't a good seller.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yeah, you guys are right so I changed the original sentence slightly.