Truth about turbo position
Hi everyone, lately I was doing some researches about forced induction because, as mentioned in my introduction post, I am looking to buy a BRZ and start a long(ish) term build project with it. I currently own a turbo charged car (my first one) and I definitely love the way it drives compared to the previous NA sports cars I had so I'd like to go that path. While reading around I stumbled across this statement (which probably many of you read too):
“Going only on anecdotal evidence, it seems very much like there are far more supercharging options available in the UK for the GT86 than turbo kits. The reason? It’s all to do with where the steering wheel is.
On all GT86s and BRZs, the exhaust manifold exits to the left-hand side of the car. So, on left-hand drive vehicles, there’s a nice space for a turbo on the other side of the engine. On right-hand drive cars though, that space is taken up by the steering column. It is possible to mount a turbo further forward and lower down, but it’s not the best place for keeping a blower cool, Feasey tells us.
So, if your steering wheel’s on the right, you’re better off with a supercharger.”
My obvious question is, is that true? And even if it is true, is it an actual real deal breaker for this specific car or an actual turbo conversion can be achieved with good reliability? The reason why I am asking is because I am not a expert about forced induction and I never thought that in a turbo (being exhaust driven) the positioning was so important.
If anyone can elaborate the topic for me it will be very much appreciated. Thanks.
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