eli5: What (if any) is the difference between an engine and a motor?

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I’ve heard these words used interchangeably over the years, with engine being more prevalent. Is there any difference? Why is a small gas-driven device like a lawnmower commonly said to have a motor, while what is under the hood of a car is almost always referred to as an engine?

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Anonymous 0 Comments

A motor is usually powered with electricity and has less moving parts. An engine is power through combustible liquids or gasses and has allot more moving parts inside of it. Also an easy way to remember the difference. Engine, stands for ingenious design. I’m also most definitely wrong in many ways but that’s the simple way I remember it.

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