The difference between a 272° and a 280° camshaft is mainly in the duration of valve opening, measured in degrees of crankshaft rotation:
1. **Valve Duration**: A 272° camshaft holds the valves open for 272 degrees of crankshaft rotation, while a 280° camshaft holds them open for 280 degrees. This means that the valves stay open longer with a 280° camshaft.
2. **Effects on the engine**:
- **High RPM Performance**: A camshaft with a longer duration (such as 280°) generally promotes high RPM performance, allowing for better intake and exhaust.
- **Impact on low-end torque**: However, this may come at the expense of low-end torque and efficiency, as prolonged valve opening can reduce compression in the cylinders at low speeds.
3. **Choice by application**: The choice between a 272° and a 280° camshaft depends on the intended use of the engine. For daily driving or balanced performance, a 272° may be more appropriate. For competition or the search for maximum power at high rpm, a 280° may be more advantageous.
In short, the 280° camshaft is more oriented towards high performance at high revs, while the 272° offers a better compromise for versatile use, particularly while retaining a certain efficiency at low revs.
1. **Valve Duration**: A 272° camshaft holds the valves open for 272 degrees of crankshaft rotation, while a 280° camshaft holds them open for 280 degrees. This means that the valves stay open longer with a 280° camshaft.
2. **Effects on the engine**:
- **High RPM Performance**: A camshaft with a longer duration (such as 280°) generally promotes high RPM performance, allowing for better intake and exhaust.
- **Impact on low-end torque**: However, this may come at the expense of low-end torque and efficiency, as prolonged valve opening can reduce compression in the cylinders at low speeds.
3. **Choice by application**: The choice between a 272° and a 280° camshaft depends on the intended use of the engine. For daily driving or balanced performance, a 272° may be more appropriate. For competition or the search for maximum power at high rpm, a 280° may be more advantageous.
In short, the 280° camshaft is more oriented towards high performance at high revs, while the 272° offers a better compromise for versatile use, particularly while retaining a certain efficiency at low revs.
