The Wankel engine is a type of internal combustion engine that uses a rotary design instead of the traditional piston mechanism. It features a triangular rotor that moves in an oval-shaped chamber, creating three separate combustion chambers. This design allows for a smoother operation and fewer moving parts, which can lead to a lighter and more compact engine. One of the key advantages of the Wankel engine is its ability to produce a high power-to-weight ratio, making it popular in applications like sports cars and motorcycles. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as higher fuel consumption and emissions compared to conventional engines.