The two strokes of a two-stroke cycle engine are fuel intake and compression then combustion and exhaust.

Power brakes multiply the force a driver applies to the brake pedal using a vacuum booster connected to the engine intake manifold. This provides for much higher hydraulic pressure in the braking system than could be generated by the driver alone. Antilock brakes (ABS) use speed sensors and adjust the brake pressure at each wheel to prevent skidding and allow the driver more steering control in slippery conditions.

Cylinders act as a guide for the pistons that translate the heat energy of combustion into the mechanical energy necessary to move a vehicle. Piston rings seal the piston to the cylinder to contain combustion gases and also regulate the oil distribution between the piston and cylinder wall. A cylinder head closes in the top of the cylinder forming the combustion chamber which is sealed by a head gasket (head). The head provides space for air and fuel intake valves, exhaust valves, and mounts for spark plugs and fuel injectors.

Both drum brake and disc brake assemblies use friction to stop a car's wheels from turning but each do it in a slightly different way. A drum brake assembly uses a large iron drum attached to the wheel and brake shoes that press against the drum to slow the rotation of the drum and, consequently, the wheel. A disc brake assembly employs friction in the same way as a drum brake but instead uses a rotor, also attached to the wheel, and two brake pads that squeeze against the surface of the rotor.

The stroke cycle order is intake stroke, compression stroke, power stroke, exhaust stroke.