Advantages
- A far higher power to weight ratio than a piston engine
- Approximately one third of the size of a piston engine of equivalent power output
- Easier to package in small engine spaces than an equivalent piston engine
- No reciprocating parts
- Able to reach higher revolutions per minute than a piston engine
- Operating with almost no vibration
- Not prone to engine-knock
- Cheaper to mass-produce, because the engine contains fewer parts
- Wider speed range giving greater adaptability
- Can use fuels of wider octane ratings
Disadvantages
- Apex seal lifting
- Slow combustion
- Bad fuel economy using gasoline fuel
- High emissions
Rotary Vehicals
| Year | Car | Weight (lb) | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1967 | NSU Ro 80 | 2,848 | 106 |
| 1972 | Chevrolet Aerovette (XP-895) |
3,500 | 420 |
| 2002 | Mazda RX-7 FD3S | 2,685 | 252 |
| 1973 | Citroën GS Birotor | 1,984 | 106 |
| 1970 | Mercedes-Benz C111 | 2,734 | 345 |