BUICK'S Turbocharged V-6 Powertrain For 1978

A new turbocharged 3.8 litre V-6 engine and powertrain has been developed for production application in 1978 Buick models. The design offers a turbocharged powertrain with improved fuel economy and performance equal to larger displacement engines. Significant technological advances include engine-turbo matching for improved low end and mid-range performance, minimized turbo vehicle "lag", and an all new electronic spark control closed loop system that controls detonation through the use of spark retard. Revisions of basic engine components to ensure durability and driveability equivalent to that of a conventional engine are discussed. Further development of this powertrain concept may provide the flexibility to meet legislated fuel economy levels of the future without severe compromises in vehicle size or performance. Numerous diagrams and photographs are included.