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How was the Caterpillar C-16 engine superior to C-15?

The Caterpillar C-16 engine was not necessarily "superior" to the C-15 in an absolute sense. Both engines were highly successful in their respective applications and had their own strengths and weaknesses.

Here's a breakdown of their key differences:

Caterpillar C-15:

* Displacement: 14.6 L

* Horsepower: Typically ranged from 400 to 600 hp

* Torque: 1550 to 2050 lb-ft

* Applications: Heavy-duty trucks, construction equipment, marine applications

* Pros: Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. Widely used and supported.

* Cons: Lower horsepower output compared to the C-16.

Caterpillar C-16:

* Displacement: 15.2 L

* Horsepower: Typically ranged from 500 to 670 hp

* Torque: 1850 to 2360 lb-ft

* Applications: High-performance heavy-duty trucks, mining equipment, power generation

* Pros: Higher horsepower and torque output for demanding applications.

* Cons: Potentially higher fuel consumption compared to the C-15, may require more maintenance.

Summary:

* C-15: The workhorse engine, known for its reliability and efficiency in a wide range of applications.

* C-16: The higher-performance option, designed for applications requiring more power and torque.

Ultimately, the "superior" engine depends on the specific application and needs. For many users, the C-15 was more than adequate, while others required the extra power and torque offered by the C-16.

It's important to note that the C-16 was ultimately discontinued and replaced by the C17 engine, which offered further improvements in performance, efficiency, and emissions compliance.