Internal Combustion Engine

Automobiles use internal combustion engines which create propulsion by converting gasoline into kinetic energy.

Types of internal combustion engines found in automobiles

these two are the most common, there are several more - refer to Wikipedia:Types of internal combustion engine
 * Four-stroke engine (Otto cycle)
 * Diesel engine

The Four Strokes

 * 1. Intake
 * 2. Compression
 * 3. Combustion
 * 4. Exhaust

Additional resources

 * Internal combustion engines