Less Power at Higher Elevations

[JP4RNR]

Is it just me or do I sense engines have less power at higher elevations like 7000 feet above sea level? When I drove a 4 Cylinder (3rd Gen 4Runner) I sure noticed a difference in that I had a lot less power. When I would return to sea level the power output in my 4 cylinder returned to normal

Tomorrow I am taking my V8 06 4Runner up to the mountains in Big Bear which is 7500 feet above sea level and so I will be curious to see if I notice less power.

 

[Jacobzky]

it must be the thin air at higher elevation.
btw, the 4R SE4WD is just fun to drive in big bear.

 

[Climb14er]

Years of driving here in Colorado have clearly shown me that altitude does affect performance.

However, it affects a 4cyl. much more than a V8 because you notice it more as there's not that much HP (and especially torque) to begin with.

A V8 eats up Colorado's 6% grades to 11,000 ft with no problems.

Modern V6's also do OK but you feel their engines working harder. Older V6's and 4's are usually in third gear at the top of long 6% grades.

One exception I've seen: straight five cylinder vehicles with lots of torque throughout the band do well, like the Mercedes Turbo Diesel
.

 

[Light_Mania]

You lose about 3% of your power for every 1000 feet above sea level, assuming your fuel injection system is in good order.

 

[OUTRNNR]

You lose about 3% of your power for every 1000 feet above sea level, assuming your fuel injection system is in good order.

Correct. All engines realize this loss of power. However, it is important to remember that turbocharged and supercharged engines lose about half the power as N/A engines. so about 1-2% per 1000 feet above sea level. Since most diesels are tuboed, they realize are more powerful up here.