Tips on Buying Cars: Engine specifiations., engined car, looking to buy a car

Question
Hello Jeremy, I am looking to buy a car, still unsure whether new or used.  

I don't understand much about car engines and fear that I wold be taken advantage of.  Is there any website that you suggest?  

I live in an urban city, and I'm looking for economy in the fuel consumption.  A 1.0 litre petrol engined car; would it work finely with mostly 2-3 passengers on board including the driver?  Or will it become lazy?  

A 1.0 litre engine comes with 3 cylinders in line; apart from making the engine lighter and smaller, what is the disadvantage if there's any, of having a 3 and not 4 cylinders in line?  

I thank you for yor time and attention to my questions.


Answer
Racheal,

Thanks for your question.  As far as your engine size, a 1.0 liter will become very sluggish with multiple passengers in it, however, it may suit your needs.  Those engines often do not last as long as a 4 cylinder engine will because it has to work harder to move the vehicle and typically will only last up to 60% to 70% of the engine life that a 4 cylinder will have.  If you aren't looking to have this vehicle for an extended period, then I think it would be fine.  Also since you live in an urban city, take into consideration all the starting and stopping, that will also weigh very heavily on the engine and cause it not to last as long as well.

Hope this helps.

Thanks - JB