Variable-length intake manifold
In internal combustion engines, a variable-length intake manifold (VLIM),variable intake manifold (VIM), or variable intake system (VIS) is an automobile internal combustion engine manifold technology. As the name implies, VLIM/VIM/VIS can vary the length of the intake tract in order to optimise power and torque across the range of engine speed operation, as well as to help provide better fuel efficiency. This effect is often achieved by having two separate intake ports, each controlled by a valve, that open two different manifolds – one with a short path that operates at full engine load, and another with a significantly longer path that operates at lower load. The first patent issued for a variable length intake manifold was published in 1958, US Patent US2835235 by Daimler Benz AG.
Lower intake manifold on a 1999 Mazda Miata engine, showing components of a variable-length intake system.
The Mazda B-series is a small-sized, iron-block, inline four-cylinder engine with belt-driven SOHC and DOHC valvetrain ranging in displacement from 1.1 to 1.8 litres. It was used in a wide variety of applications, from front-wheel drive economy vehicles to the turbocharged full-time 4WD 323 GTX and rear-wheel drive Miata.
Mazda B3E
Mazda B6D, 3rd generation
B6ZE(RS)
Mazda BPT - Turbocharged 1.8L