DOHC Vs. SOHC (not what you think)

[mls]

The basic design of both camshaft quantities has got me thinking. Does the DOHC engine have the only advantage of being able to adjust the exhaust or intake timing independant to each other? Compared with the DOHC engine, if you rotate the SOHC cam any which way, then intake & exhaust are adjusted together. I suppose if the same engine (for example, the B18A Integra engine) was created equal, except one was a DOHC & the other was a SOHC, then output will be the same? Plus, you get less drivetrain weight & reciprocating mass thrown in as a bonus.

[infinatenexus]

You only need DOHC if you want to tinker with your valve overlap. In SOHC its set in the cam, requiring you to swap the cam.

[soccaian]

the DOHC also has less valvetrain weight.... no rocker arms, and shorter valve springs.

[mls]

Not all DOHC have direct valve actuation. See the B series (among other Honda DOHC's), & SR20 for an example.

[Wadzii22]

the main reason honda dohc vtec engines make more power is b/c they have a highly superior port/combustion chamber design and much larger valves. 2 cams does not mean more power.. however better head design does.

[Nelziq]

In some cars, more cams means more valves per cylinder. This isnt neccessarily the rule, its just easier for car manufactureres so they do it that way.

[-=Zeqs=-]

By having DOHC in a car with VTEC, the manufactor is able to properly setup VTEC for both the intake and exhaust sides. Allowing them both to have optimum lift and duration.

[infinatenexus]

IHMO DOHC is over rated