A piston engine is a type of internal combustion engine that converts fuel into mechanical energy. It works by burning fuel, which creates hot gases that push a piston inside a cylinder. This movement turns a crankshaft, ultimately powering vehicles like cars and motorcycles. Piston engines are commonly found in many everyday machines, including lawnmowers and generators. They can run on various fuels, such as gasoline or diesel, and are known for their reliability and efficiency. Famous examples of vehicles with piston engines include the Ford Mustang and the Honda Civic.