The Otto engine is a type of internal combustion engine that operates on the four-stroke cycle. It was invented by Nikolaus Otto in the 1870s and is commonly used in automobiles. The engine works by drawing in air and fuel, compressing the mixture, igniting it with a spark, and then expelling the exhaust gases. This engine is known for its efficiency and reliability, making it a popular choice for many vehicles. The four strokes involved are intake, compression, power, and exhaust, which together convert fuel into mechanical energy to power the vehicle.