160F Low Temperature Thermostat = higher horsepower

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by BRAN

"... a cooler engine will have higher volumetric efficiency. Lower temperatures will also allow for more timing without detonation since the ECU is capable of changing timing based off of fuel quality and engine operating temperature. This can result in higher horsepower and better fuel economy as well..."

Theory or Reality?

It is real, but the gains are very small, 2-3 HP on a dyno. Bigger advantage is reducing the heat stress on the engine castings and lowing the oil temp by 25F, which is a huge advantage.

[Gelbster]

After an expensive and unexpected engine rebuild ,I have become much more interested in protecting the engine from the many MOF's than getting more power...Yemv
I love the lower temp thermostat for that reason alone.

[911monty]

Originally Posted by JFP in PA

It is real, but the gains are very small, 2-3 HP on a dyno. Bigger advantage is reducing the heat stress on the engine castings and lowing the oil temp by 25F, which is a huge advantage.

And thanks to JFP this is now why my base sports the low temp and a new S oil cooler.