The IO-360 is actually a fairly efficient engine when run properly. Similar to Ford’s ecoboost line per https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brake-specific_fuel_consumpt... (The -720 is basically equivalent design to a -360 just doubled). Airplanes use a lot of fuel because air resistance varies with v^2, not because of poor engine design.
Sure there have been improvements in modern engines, but these primarily target efficiency across power outputs whereas (as sibling noted) planes tend to have stable power requirements.
Not sure what your point is about constant speed or gearing because I already said that.
Sure there have been improvements in modern engines, but these primarily target efficiency across power outputs whereas (as sibling noted) planes tend to have stable power requirements.
Not sure what your point is about constant speed or gearing because I already said that.