Quote:
Originally Posted by Black Tire
Could you give some details about why you think someone would choose one or the other? That way we might be able to learn something in a short period of time that would prompt us to do some more targeted research.
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I was asking for a response from the OP so I could give more "targeted" advice.
But if you would like a more general run-down:
Superchargers and turbochargers have similar purpose, but different characteristics. Superchargers are engine-driven so they are much more responsive. Turbochargers are exhaust driven so they generate more net horsepower.
Because superchargers are more responsive to throttle inputs, they are often favored in forms of racing where that's an asset. AutoX is one such sport. Torque delivery nearly as instant as a normally aspirated engine is beneficial when you are constantly going from corner exit to corner entry. Some also like the response for predictable steady-state cornering on track.
Superchargers come in two major flavors: Centrifugal and Positive Displacement. Centrifugal blowers look like turbochargers, and like them, they make more torque at higher RPMs. Positive displacement blowers deliver a speicifc volume of air across most of the RPM range and tend to make more torque at lower RPMs at a small expense at the top end. Driving style and type of racing will dictate which power band is more beneficial to have.
Turbochargers, being exhaust driven, make more peak power than superchargers because they are driven by the waste energy in the exhaust rather than taking power directly from the engine. The trade off is that the impeller inside the turbocharger will take time getting up to speed. This introduces some lag time between throttle input and the onset of torque. The nature of this means that a turbocharger excels when the throttle is held open for long stretches, but falters when the throttle is being opened and closed frequently. This means turbochargers are favored in drag racing and track days.
There are of course exceptions to everything above; these are just broad brush strokes to give a foundation of understanding. For example, AutoX drivers may prefer a turbo to a supercharger BECAUSE of the lag, as the lower torque when they put their foot down can assist in maintaining grip at corner exit.