What is the difference between NGK spark plugs iridium and platinum?
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's performance, choosing the right spark plugs is crucial. NGK, a trusted name in the automotive industry, offers both iridium and platinum spark plugs. While both types are designed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in your engine efficiently, they differ in materials, performance, and longevity. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision for your vehicle.
1. Material Composition
The primary difference between NGK iridium and platinum spark plugs lies in the material used for the electrode.
- Iridium Spark Plugs: These plugs feature an electrode made from iridium, a metal that is harder and more durable than platinum. Iridium is known for its high melting point, making it ideal for high-performance engines.
- Platinum Spark Plugs: These plugs use a platinum-tipped electrode. While platinum is also durable and resistant to wear, it is not as hard or heat-resistant as iridium.
In summary, iridium spark plugs are made with a more robust material, which contributes to their superior performance and longevity compared to platinum plugs.
2. Performance
Performance is another area where these two types of spark plugs differ.
- Iridium Spark Plugs: Due to the smaller electrode size, iridium plugs require less voltage to produce a spark. This results in better ignition efficiency, improved fuel combustion, and enhanced engine performance.
- Platinum Spark Plugs: While platinum plugs also provide reliable performance, they are not as efficient as iridium plugs in high-performance or modern engines that demand precise ignition.
If you’re looking for optimal performance, especially in newer or high-performance vehicles, iridium spark plugs are the better choice.
3. Longevity
Durability and lifespan are important factors to consider when choosing spark plugs.
- Iridium Spark Plugs: Thanks to the hardness and heat resistance of iridium, these plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles or more, depending on driving conditions and engine type.
- Platinum Spark Plugs: Platinum plugs have a shorter lifespan, usually lasting around 60,000 to 80,000 miles. They are still more durable than traditional copper plugs but fall short compared to iridium.
For drivers who want to minimize maintenance and enjoy long-lasting performance, iridium spark plugs are the preferred option.
4. Cost
Cost is another factor that differentiates these two types of spark plugs.
- Iridium Spark Plugs: Due to the advanced material and superior performance, iridium plugs are more expensive than platinum plugs.
- Platinum Spark Plugs: These plugs are more affordable, making them a good choice for budget-conscious drivers or older vehicles that don’t require high-performance spark plugs.
While iridium plugs come with a higher upfront cost, their longer lifespan and better performance can make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Conclusion
In summary, NGK iridium spark plugs are the top choice for drivers seeking maximum performance, efficiency, and longevity, especially for modern or high-performance vehicles. On the other hand, NGK platinum spark plugs are a reliable and budget-friendly option for older vehicles or those with less demanding performance requirements. When choosing between the two, consider your vehicle’s needs, your driving habits, and your budget to make the best decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do NGK iridium spark plugs increase horsepower?
Greater engine power from iridium spark plugs
The spark plug manufacturers are unanimous about the fact that iridium spark plugs can considerably improve the engine power.
Are platinum spark plugs worth the extra money?
Longevity is a key advantage of platinum spark plugs. Another advantage of platinum spark plugs is that they run a little hotter, which burns deposits off the spark plug better and helps prevent fouling. Platinum also handles high heat, enabling the spark plug to wear better.
What is the best spark plug for older engines?
Copper spark plugs
Copper spark plugs are also often used in older (pre-1980s) vehicles with a distributor-based ignition system. The nickel-alloy outer material used in the copper spark plug isn't as hard as other metals so it wears down more quickly with the high pressure and heat created in the cylinder of the engine.
Is there a downside to iridium spark plugs?
Cons of Iridium Spark Plugs
The best models use two or three layers of iridium on the central electrode, whereas the cheapest models may use only one thin layer. These can be prone to cracks and impact damage, so for the best results, always invest in a double or triple coated spark plug.
Do NGK iridium plugs make a difference?
Better ignition quality – iridium spark plugs concentrate the electric spark, making it quicker to generate combustion with less expenditure of energy. Each ignition from an iridium spark plug is more efficient than a normal spark plug, and places less wear and tear on the component.
Is NGK Premium RX better than iridium?
Benefits of NGK RX PREMIUM (VS IRIDIUM) :
- Increased longevity of 20 to 40% compared to NGK IRIDIUM MAX. - Increased longevity beyond double compared to NGK Iridium IX. - Ruthenium undisputed benefits over the stability of the ignition and its corrosion resistance related to combustion effects.
Should I upgrade to platinum spark plugs?
The platinum plugs will last longer than copper. This is especially true in the modern ignition systems that apply higher power to the plugs. Or, if you installed a multiple spark amplifier, like an MSD box, they tend to be harder on plugs. So a plug with stronger tips will help them last longer.
What is the disadvantage of iridium spark plugs?
Cons of Iridium Spark Plugs
- Iridium spark plugs are much more expensive than platinum and copper spark plugs.
- In terms of like-for-like performance, an iridium spark plug is on par with a good quality platinum spark plug, which is usually available for less money.
What happens if you use platinum spark plugs instead of iridium?
While you can switch from iridium to platinum spark plugs, it may result in decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and more frequent replacements. If your vehicle is designed for iridium plugs, it's generally best to stick with them for optimal performance.
What's better, NGK iridium or platinum?
To actually answer your question, iridums are better than platinum. Iridum is a harder metal, so it holds up better than platinum for long service intervals and iridum is a much better electrical conductor than platinum, making for a better spark.
