1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI - Problems, weaknesses

The 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI are two different turbocharged gasoline engines from Volkswagen Group, widely used in various models under brands like Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, and Škoda. Here’s a comparison between them:

1.2 TSI Engine
**Displacement**: 1,197 cc
**Power Output**: Typically ranges from 85 to 110 horsepower (hp)
**Torque**: Around 160 to 175 Nm
**Configuration**: Inline 4-cylinder, 16 valves
**Fuel Efficiency**: Generally more fuel-efficient than the 1.4 TSI due to its smaller displacement
**Applications**: Used in smaller and more budget-friendly models like the Volkswagen Polo, SEAT Ibiza, and Škoda Fabia
**Technology**: Turbocharged with direct fuel injection

1.4 TSI Engine
**Displacement**: 1,390 cc
**Power Output**: Typically ranges from 120 to 150 horsepower (hp)
**Torque**: Around 200 to 250 Nm
**Configuration**: Inline 4-cylinder, 16 valves
**Fuel Efficiency**: Slightly less fuel-efficient compared to the 1.2 TSI but offers better performance
**Applications**: Used in a wider range of models, including larger and more performance-oriented vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, SEAT Leon, and Audi A3
**Technology**: Turbocharged with direct fuel injection, some variants include both a turbocharger and a supercharger for improved performance across different RPM ranges (e.g., the 1.4 TSI Twincharger)

Key Differences
1. **Performance**: The 1.4 TSI generally offers higher power and torque, making it more suitable for larger vehicles and those requiring better performance.
2. **Fuel Efficiency**: The 1.2 TSI is typically more fuel-efficient due to its smaller size.
3. **Applications**: The 1.2 TSI is used in smaller, entry-level models, while the 1.4 TSI is found in a broader range of vehicles, including more premium models.
4. **Technology Variants**: The 1.4 TSI engine has more technological variants, such as the Twincharger version, which combines a turbocharger and a supercharger for enhanced performance.

Overall, the choice between the two engines depends on the balance between desired performance and fuel efficiency, as well as the type of vehicle in which the engine will be used.