Question for motor gurus: Merlin Vs Packard sound

**FlyingFinn** · July 4th, 2011, 10:17

They're basically the same engine, yet they sound so different. Merlin has meaty, throaty growl, where as Packard seems to have more high pitched snarl. How come?

***BPbobafett1982*** · July 4th, 2011, 10:28

Only thing I can think of would be the difference in the Supercharger designs between the British and American models.

***grumpos*** · July 4th, 2011, 10:58

Originally Posted by FlyingFinn

They're basically the same engine, yet they sound so different. Merlin has meaty, throaty growl, where as Packard seems to have more high pitched snarl. How come?

I'd think that the airflow over the engine would be a major factor in the sound. No two Merlin powered aircraft sound the same, due to the different cowling shapes.

I have never heard of anybody being able to tell if a spit or lanc is fitted with a Packard or RR Merlin, just by listening to the engine.

**Naki** · July 4th, 2011, 13:55

Engine exhaust configurations makes a difference too. Ive listened to a Packard Merlin powered Spitfire and Mustang take off after each other and even they sound different.

***magoo*** · July 4th, 2011, 14:11

Which Merlin?

Merlin 32, 45, 47, 61, 66....Merlin II, X,.....XX,.....266..(Packard Merlin 66...)

Different heads, valves, cams, exhaust manifolds, different intakes, blowers, different aircraft, different variations of same aircraft....different propeller types, etc, etc....

..And now days, a given engine can be a real mish-mash of components....

....Still....I find them quite distinctive sounding. Musica Merlin. What a sweet song.

**FlyingFinn** · July 5th, 2011, 04:05

Well, the Merlin Merlin I heard was from Spit IX and Packard Merlin was from D-Mustang.

***stuartcox*** · July 5th, 2011, 08:48

The Mustang has a very distinctive sound, even with a RR Merlin!
As it was mentioned above, it's mainly due to the airflow over the aircraft.
The Mustang has a great big cooler intake that can produce a high pitched 'whistle' at certain speeds and angles.
Also the engine configuration plays a roll, some are 'throatier', rough sounding, others much smoother.
Have a look at this :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2nlGN6aS8g

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5fjKEXXPQ8

These are all Rolls Royce Merlins, but sound completely different!

**FlyingFinn** · July 6th, 2011, 09:51

Indeed, they really do seem to have a personality of their own even though they're from same motor family! Wonderful sounds from both, never the less.