How much horsepower does a 915 Rotax have

So you're wondering what the Rotax 915 iS (or the newer iSc) actually puts out? This turbocharged aircraft engine is seriously impressive. The certified maximum takeoff power is 141 horsepower (105 kW) at 5800 RPM. That's a big jump from the older Rotax 912, and it's all thanks to that fancy intercooled turbocharger system they bolted on.

Okay, 141 hp is the official number, but here's the thing — under the right conditions, it can actually push more. At sea level in standard atmosphere, the engine management system keeps things in check to protect the engine. But the turbo lets it hold that full 141 hp all the way up to 15,000 feet (4,572 meters). If the ECU wasn't holding it back, you'd probably see over 155 hp. But for reliability and longevity, they keep it at 141 hp certified.

How does the Rotax 915 achieve 141 hp?

The magic here is all in the turbocharging. Most engines lose power as you climb, but the 915 doesn't care. It's got an exhaust-driven turbocharger and a dual-path intercooler that squishes and cools the incoming air. So even when the air gets thin up high, the engine still acts like it's at sea level. With a 1352 cc displacement, a 10.8:1 compression ratio, and dual electronic ignition, it burns that dense air-fuel mix efficiently. That's how you get sustained 141 hp.

What is the continuous power rating of the Rotax 915?

Maximum continuous power (MCP) is 141 hp at 5800 RPM. But honestly, you don't run it at full chat all the time. At 75% power — that's about 106 hp — you get solid fuel economy while still hauling ass. The ECU limits things to stop over-boosting and keep temperatures in check, which means a longer service life. Smart engineering, really.

How does the Rotax 915 compare to the Rotax 912 in horsepower?

It's not even close. The 915 absolutely smokes the 912 series. Here's the breakdown:

So yeah, the 915 gives you 41% more takeoff power than the 912 and 22% more than the 914. That extra oomph really shows during takeoff, climb, and especially at altitude.

What is the maximum horsepower the Rotax 915 can produce?

Technically, it can push more than 141 hp. The EMS is programmed to cap it there for certification and component protection. But if you're in a pinch or messing with aftermarket tuning (which I wouldn't recommend for certified aircraft), it could hit 155-160 hp for short bursts. Problem is, going beyond certified limits risks high cylinder head temps, detonation, and a shorter engine life. For all practical purposes, 141 hp is your max.

What torque does the Rotax 915 produce?

Torque is where this engine really shines. It churns out 132 Nm (97.4 ft-lb) at 4800 RPM. That's a lot of twist at relatively low revs, giving you strong thrust for takeoff and climb without screaming the engine. The combo of 141 hp and 132 Nm makes the 915 crazy responsive and efficient for light sport aircraft, experimentals, and kit planes.

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