* Engines generate power, not speed. An engine's job is to turn fuel into mechanical energy.
* Transmissions control speed. A transmission is the component that uses gears to change the speed of the engine's output to the wheels.
What you're likely thinking of is a 4-speed transmission. This means a transmission with four different gear ratios, allowing the vehicle to move at different speeds while the engine operates within its optimal power band.
Here's a breakdown:
* 1st Gear: Provides the most torque for starting from a standstill.
* 2nd Gear: Provides more speed than 1st gear, but still with good torque.
* 3rd Gear: Used for normal driving, balancing speed and efficiency.
* 4th Gear: Top gear, usually for highway driving and optimal fuel economy.
Note: 4-speed transmissions were common in older cars, but modern vehicles often have 5, 6, or even more speeds for better performance and fuel efficiency.