Are you looking to improve the raw power of your motor’s engine? High quality spark plugs just might be the thing your automobile needs to unleash the beast within. So, which ones are the best?
Whenever we think engine performance and horsepower, we seldom think about spark plugs and the effect they have on a vehicle’s engine. The truth is that high quality spark plugs have the ability to improve the performance of your engine and its horsepower by 1 to 2%. While that may not particularly ground breaking, you will definitely feel a difference in the overall quality of your driving experience. There are many spark plug types, ranging from copper, platinum and iridium. So, which ones are the best?
The Best Spark Plugs for Horsepower Comparison Table
Product Name |
Material |
Special Feature |
Action |
NGK BKR5EIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug |
Iridium |
Long insulator nose |
|
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 41-962 Double Platinum Spark Plug |
Double platinum |
Pure copper core |
|
Bosch 9620 Double Iridium Pin to Pin Spark Plug |
Iridium |
Double iridium firing pin |
|
Denso 4503 Spark Plug |
Platinum |
Titanium enhanced ground electrode |
|
NGK (6619) LFR6AIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug |
Iridium |
Trivalent metal plating |
|
Motorcraft SP-493 Spark Plug |
Double platinum |
Specifically designed for Ford machines |
|
Bosch ZGR6STE2 Copper withNickel Spark Plug |
Copper with nickel |
Yttrium enhanced copper core |
The Best Spark Plugs for Horsepower – Products Review
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NGK BKR5EIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug–Has elongated insulator nose for great antifouling features.
- Designed specifically for the performance enthusiast, Iridium IX offers extreme ignitability, improved throttle response and superior anti-fouling
- The 0.6mm laser welded fine Iridium tip ensures high durability and a consistently stable spark and the tapered ground electrode minimizes electrical quenching effect
- Longer insulator nose prevents fouling, the corrugated ribs on insulator prevents flashover, and a triple gasket seal eliminates combustion gas leakage
- Iridium alloy has extremely high melting point, giving it high durability to heat and electrical wear, perfect for today's high-performance engines
- Trivalent metal plating has superior anti-corrosion and anti-seizing properties
If you have a high performance engine that depends on a good deal of power, you definitely want to invest in an iridium spark plug, and this right here is your best bet.
Key features
- Made using iridium
- Has a 0.6mm iridium tip
- Has a triple gasket seal
- Has a high melting point
The main reason behind this spark plug’s excellence is the fact that it is made using iridium, a material that is globally recognized for its ability to support and handle extremely high performance over a long period of time. It takes on extreme heat with grace and prowess, resisting quick damage to outlast even the best platinum spark plugs in the market currently.
What makes this spark plug stand out is its ability to facilitate incredible engine response. It is able to emit sparks consistently without sustaining damage and while handling the electrical load with grace. In addition, it features a long insulator nose which results in a hotter plug temperature.
While this may seem like a damaging advantage, the NGK BKR5EIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug comes with excellent heat tolerance which allows it to last a good deal of time without being damaged. It lasts at least 3 to 4 times longer than a regular copper spark plug, making it not only efficient, but also incredibly economical. Its triple gasket seal also prevents all sorts of combusted gas leakage while its ground electrode’s shape gives the engine excellent heat expansion capacity.
Pros
- Constructed using iridium
- Has an extremely high melting point
- Can handle emitting sparks quite well
- Delivers excellent engine response
Cons
- It is quite pricey
Verdict
Nothing quite sets a spark plug apart than the ability to handle extreme heat and to deliver excellent engine response. With the NGK BKR5EIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug, your engine will realize better combustion and increased horsepower, and you will not have to worry about replacing them any time soon.
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ACDelco GM Original Equipment 41-962 Double Platinum Spark Plug – Made using double platinum.
- One-piece, fired-in suppressor seal blends three glass types for a gas-tight seal that helps reduce radio frequency and engine interference, regulate spark plug energy, and protect against compression pressures for long life
- Double platinum point pad on center and ground electrode offer excellent durability and consistent voltage demands to help reduce wear on ignition system
- Pure copper core results in cooler electrode temperature for maximized durability and fouling resistance
- Some ACDelco GM Original Equipment parts may have formerly appeared as GM Genuine Parts (OE) or ACDelco Professional
- ACDelco GM Original Equipment parts are designed, engineered and tested to rigorous standards, and are backed by General Motors
With a core made entirely out of copper, this spark plug promises to handle heat quite like a champ, maintaining average internal temperature at any one given time.
Key features
- Made using double platinum
- Has a 100% copper core
- Has a gas tight seal
- Low voltage
Even though this spark plug is not made of iridium, it has proven itself as one of the strongest and most reliable industry players, especially for its versatility and durability. The center and ground electrodes feature double platinum point pads which are charged with keeping voltage at a constant. In addition, this spark plug is a low voltage device that requires little power to generate sparks, a characteristic that significantly reduces the strain on the car’s battery.
With its gas tight seal, it ensures that combusted gases do not leak, a feature that reduces carbon emissions during the working of the engine. This seal also accords protection against damage that stems from compression pressure and it also controls the energy of the sparks.
Since it boasts a purely copper core, this spark plug is able to take on heat quite well, and it is able to stay cool even during the process of ignition. In addition, it keeps the engine from misfiring. For longevity, this spark plug’s shell has anti-corrosion coating which protects it from quick wear and tear.
Pros
- It is a low voltage spark plug
- Made from double platinum
- Has a purely copper core
- Comes with a gas tight seal
- Has an anti-corrosion coating
Cons
- Does not last as long as a regular iridium spark plug
Verdict
With its low strain on your battery and exceptional delivery to your engine, you will hit the road with great confidence as a result of guaranteed performance. This spark plug is also quite affordable, so you do not have to break the bank for great quality.
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Bosch 9620 Double Iridium Pin to Pin Spark Plug – Made purely from iridium
- Double Iridium firing pin and ground electrode pin provide 4X longer service life compared to standard copper plugs
- 0.6mm fine wire firing pin provides superior ignitability and performance
- 360 Degree continuous laser weld fuses corrosion resistant iridium firing pin to base for increased durability
- 7 year performance satisfaction
- Original equipment, pre-gapped replacement delivering optimum fit, form and function
This spark plug is easily one of the best performing in the market, and it boasts a double iridium firing pin.
Key features
- Double iridium firing pin
- 360° laser weld
- Comes pre-gapped
- Highly durable
The Bosch 9620 Double Iridium Pin to Pin Spark Plug is easily one of my favorite and most reliable spark plug brands. With its double iridium firing pin, this spark plug delivers exceptional performance and still manages to last at least four times longer than your regular copper spark plugs.
Even with its commendable performance, it only requires very little voltage so as to generate sparks, sparing you battery the need to give off more power than necessary. For high durability, it also comes with a 360° laser weld that works to add corrosion resistant iridium, allowing for the spark plug to retain its actual form for a period of up to 7 years.
Many spark plugs do not come pre-gapped, and you have to make adjustments to make sure that the spark plug fits your car. Well, in case you drive a car that was made a decade or less ago, you will have no problem using this device. It comes pre-gapped, and all you have to do is install it and hit the road. It is also great for using on small cars,trucks and SUVs.
Pros
- It is made from iridium
- It lasts at least 4 times longer than average copper spark plugs
- Comes pre-gapped
- Has a 360° laser weld
- Can be used on many vehicle types
Cons
- May not be compatible with older vehicle models
Verdict
Durability is one of the features about a spark plug that stands out for me, and the Bosch 9620 Double Iridium Pin to Pin Spark Plug delivers just that. In addition, it delivers great performance without necessarily demanding too much from the battery in terms of power.
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Denso 4503 Spark Plug – Made from platinum
This spark plug boasts a titanium enhanced ground electrode which facilitates exceptional performance.
Key features
- Has a platinum center and titanium enhanced ground electrode
- Made using platinum
- Has a purified alumina powder insulator
- Improve fuel economy
With this spark plug, you are not just going to enjoy better horsepower, you will also benefit from better fuel economy. The Denso 4503 Spark Plug delivers more while demanding less from your vehicle. This device is made from platinum which is quite hardy and lasts a good deal longer than a regular copper spark plug.
It features twin tip technology, with an 11mm titanium enhanced ground electrode and a platinum center, a feature that significantly reduce the chances of misfiring. In addition, this spark plug reduced the emission of CO2 which is great for the environment.
When it comes to insulation, the Denso 4503 Spark Plug contains purified alumina powder which allows for stronger power surge as well as boost overall conductivity. This characteristic proves essential in giving the spark plug the capacity to stand up to more stress and deliver without getting damaged quickly.
It is also an excellent tool for boosting power while reducing in fuel consumption, as well as facilitating faster and smoother starts.
Pros
- Boasts twin tip technology
- Has purified alumina powder for better conductivity
- Does not require too much power
- Reduces emission of CO2
- Reduces fuel consumption
Cons
- It does not have any anti-rusting protection
Verdict
Even though this spark plug does not last as long as iridium spark plugs do it does a whole lot of good to improve the overall performance of your vehicle’s engine when installed. You will realize more power, less fuel consumption and even less CO2 emission which is great for the environment.
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NGK (6619) LFR6AIX-11 Iridium IX Spark Plug – Made from iridium
- Fine Wire (0.6mm) Iridium Center Electrode
- NGK Part# LFR6AIX-11
This spark plug boasts trivalent metal plating which is essential for protection against harmful corrosion and seizing.
Key features
- Made from Iridium IX
- 6mm laser welded iridium tip
- Long insulator nose
- Reduces fuel consumption
Yet another iridium spark plug from NGK, this device makes an excellent acquisition for people who like to discover and utilize the raw power of their engines. This spark plug is made to excel in high performance vehicles, and it is able to demand less from them while pushing them to deliver more.
It boasts an ultra-fine electrode wire which results in a smooth engine as it runs and when it is idling. In addition, it supports significantly less use of fuel, making it really economical. With its long insulator nose, you will have a lot less fouling to deal with. It also has corrugated ribs, a characteristic that prevents the occurrence of flushover.
You can also be certain that you will not experience combusted gas leakage since this spark plug comes with a triple gasket seal. Durability is also one of this spark plug’s strength points since, aside from being incredibly resistant to extreme heat, it also boasts trivalent metal plating which is essential in keeping it from sustaining damage from corrosion and seizing.
Pros
- Has a long life span
- Helps to increase fuel efficiency
- Features trivalent metal plating for anti-corrosion strength
- Has an ultra-fine electrode wire
Cons
- It is quite pricey
Verdict
Even though this spark plug costs a good deal of money, it will last you a longer time than the best copper spark plug ever could. It also promises less fuel consumption, proving to be an efficient and economical acquisition for your automobile.
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Motorcraft SP-493 Spark Plug – Made using double platinum
- Genuine Ford Part SP-493
- Engineered by Ford specifically for your vehicle
- Ford quality construction
- Customer will be contacted if core charge applies to part.
This spark plug was and is constructed by Ford or use on Ford machines, and it proves to be one of the best and most reliable plugs for high horsepower machines.
Key features
- Made using double platinum
- Has platinum padded electrodes
- Last up to 100,000 miles
- Steel and nickel plated shell
If you want to get your high performance Ford engine a genuine set of sparkplugs without having to part with an arm, a leg and half your dignity, the Motorcraft SP-493 Spark Plug is the plug for you. It combines high dependability, durability and affordability to set itself apart from other high end spark plugs.
It boasts platinum padded electrodes which have the capacity to make certain that each spark is generated at safely low temperatures. This in turn makes sure that the plugs do not sustain damage from having to handle extreme heat generated from the sparks.
There are two main variations of this spark plug. Th first features a steel plated shell while the other has a nickel plated shell. Both of these work quite well, and they are able to resist damage brought about by corrosion quite well.
The Motorcraft SP-493 Spark plug is built for performance and it lasts a good deal of time, guaranteeing use over a cumulative distance of up to 100,000 miles.
Pros
- Excellent for use in Ford machines
- Built for durability
- Has platinum padded electrodes
- Steel and nickel plated to avoid corrosion
Cons
- Not compatible with many vehicle models
Verdict
If you have a high performance Ford engine, the Motorcraft SP-493 Spark Plugs are some of the best and most reliable for your car. They boast exceptional performance and durability, proving to be both efficient and highly economical.
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Bosch ZGR6STE2 Copper with Nickel Spark Plug – Constructed using copper with nickel
- Tapered, v-profile nickel chromium ground electrode for improved cold starts and fuel ignitability
- Heavy-duty, yttrium enhanced copper core center electrode for reliability and performance
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
- Item package weight: 1.0 pounds
This spark plug from Bosch boasts a Yttrium enhanced copper core for better heat handling and longevity.
Key features
- Made using copper with nickel
- Has a Yttrium enhanced copper core
- Has a nickel plated shell
- Ultra-fine wire
This spark plug is the only one on our list that is made using copper, and that says a lot about its overall performance. It is a spark plug that works exceptionally well and is also affordable so that you can enjoy better engine performance without necessarily having to break the bank.
Even though the outer body of this device is made using copper, the manufacturer made sure to give it an iridium firing pin for great performance. This spark plug is also able to resist fouling since its copper core is specially designed for this purpose.
For longevity, this spark plug is coated using nickel, a characteristic that keeps it from getting damaged by corrosion. This allows you to go a good deal of time without having to worry about replacing the spark plugs.
This tool also boasts an ultra-fine wire which is great for the smooth running of your engine. The good thing about it is that gapping is not required, and all you have to do is install and drive.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Has iridium firing pin
- Coated with nickel to resist corrosion
- Does not need gapping
Cons
- Not compatible with a good number of vehicle models
Verdict
If you are looking to buy a high performance park plug and not go overboard with your budget you may want to get the Bosch ZGR6STE2 Copper with Nickel Spark Plug. It may not be the best in the business, but it does a pretty decent job.
Buying Spark Plugs for horsepower – What to look out for
Material
As earlier mentioned, spark plugs are mainly made from copper, platinum and iridium. Iridium spark plugs are the best for high performance engines, but they are known to cost a pretty penny. Double platinum spark plugs are also quite good, and they are more affordable than the former.
Heat handling
Go for park plugs that have the ability to handle extreme heat and corrosive material without sustaining damage. You want spark plugs that can work in every environment without compromising on performance.
Cost
Always try and keep within your budget. However, since spark plug are something of an investment that is ideally meant to last a long time, it makes sense to make one high quality purchase that will serve you for a long duration.
Final Verdict
While spark plugs will not magically cause your vehicle’s performance to leap from average to extraordinary, they play a crucial role in ensuring that your engine is at its best and that combustion is great. That said, improved horsepower in a high power engine demands high quality spark plugs. Ensure that your chosen set does a good job and lasts you a good deal of time so that you get the best of performance and economy.
Allan Davis
Allan Davis is an expert at car maintenance. He has been working in this industry for years and thus has a lot of experience handling different car models. The expert believes that the lifespan of your vehicle depends on how well you maintain it. Therefore, he reiterates the importance of regular inspections of different car parts such as rotors, brake pads, engine, tires, and wheels to confirm that they are in excellent condition. According to Allan, simple malfunctions of different components can lead to accidents. Taking care of your car, on the other hand, can make you a great driver. He hopes that the information he has provided above can help you maintain your car accordingly.
