You're probably familiar with the standard combustion process that powers most cars, but some engines use a more efficient cycle that dates back to the 1800s.

Years ago, the choice was clear: When it came to 2 stroke vs 4 stroke outboard motors, 2 stroke won every time. Two stroke motors offered a better power-to-weight ratio, were cheaper to manufacture, ...

The two-stroke engine is mostly a piece of history today, but there was a time when some of the coolest developments in engine technology were two-cycle engines. Here’s how two-stroke technology rose ...

Editor’s Note: This article previously appeared in a different format as part of The Atlantic’s Notes section, retired in 2021. In response to the item immediately below, which kicked off this Thread, ...