A 2-stroke engine is an engine that completes one power cycle in two strokes of the piston, whereas a stroke engine is an engine that completes one power cycle in four strokes of the piston.
Here is a comparison of the two types of engines:
| Feature | 2-Stroke Engine | 4-Stroke Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strokes per power cycle | 2 | 4 |
| Number of valves | 2 | 4 |
| Power output | Lower | Higher |
| Efficiency | Lower | Higher |
| Emissions | Higher | Lower |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
In general, 2-stroke engines are simpler and less expensive to build than 4-stroke engines. However, they are also less efficient and produce more emissions. As a result, 4-stroke engines are more commonly used in modern vehicles.