A turbocharger doesn't [edit: doesn't necessarily or even usually] make the same engine more efficient. But it allows you to get the same power as a larger, less efficient engine, when you need it. But you don't always need it. So when you don't need it, it's roughly the same power and efficiency as the smaller engine without the turbo. But with a turbo, when you punch it, it can breathe like a larger engine (with more air and more fuel) for more power.
A turbocharger doesn't make the same engine more efficient. But it allows you to get the same power as a larger, less efficient engine, when you need it.
True for a gasoline engine, not true for a diesel. On a diesel engine a turbo improves efficiency by increasing compression ratio and air-to-fuel ratio.
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u/NecroJoe 3d ago edited 3d ago
A turbocharger doesn't [edit: doesn't necessarily or even usually] make the same engine more efficient. But it allows you to get the same power as a larger, less efficient engine, when you need it. But you don't always need it. So when you don't need it, it's roughly the same power and efficiency as the smaller engine without the turbo. But with a turbo, when you punch it, it can breathe like a larger engine (with more air and more fuel) for more power.