The difference between superchargers and turbochargers

A supercharger by common definition is anything that compresses air and forces it into an engine.

In street talk, a supercharger is drived directly by the engine using a belt, gear or chain. There is no or very little delay in response when pushing on the gas and when the additional power created by the supercharger kicks in. That is why superchargers in their truest definition are used in drag racers.

Because of the definition of supercharger is anything that compresses air and forces it into an engine, a turbocharger falls into the category of a supercharger. The only difference is that a turbocharger is driven by the exhaust gas of the engine so there is no direct connection to the engine mechanically.

Turbochargers are effective and more efficient in providing extra power, but they don't provide the almost instant response that true drag racers want and need to perform.

You'll find turbochargers on most diesel engines because they give the diesel a power boost for acceleration and power when its needed.

Hope this clears up some of the misunderstanding that exists about the difference between superchargers and turbochargers.

Until next time...