Here are some reasons why some cars still have carburetors instead of fuel injectors or direct-injection systems:
Simplicity: Carburetors are mechanically simpler compared to fuel injection systems. They don't require complex electronics or sensors, making them easier to maintain and repair, especially in rural or less developed areas.
Lower Cost: Carburetors are less expensive to manufacture and repair than modern fuel injection systems. This makes them a cost-effective option for older or low-budget vehicles.
Easier Maintenance: For mechanics familiar with carburetors, troubleshooting, and repairs are more straightforward, requiring fewer specialized tools than fuel injection systems.
Compatibility with Older Engines: Many older engines are designed around carburetor systems. Replacing them with fuel injection would require significant engine modifications, which might not be practical or cost-effective for some vehicles.
No Electronics: In vehicles without sophisticated onboard electronics, carburetors are ideal because they don't rely on sensors, computers, or electrical wiring, which could malfunction or need frequent updates in modern systems.
Tuning Flexibility: Enthusiasts or mechanics can manually adjust and tune carburetors for different performance settings, such as fuel economy or power. This manual control appeals to some older vehicle owners.
Historical Preference: In regions with infrastructure and technical expertise for maintaining advanced fuel injection systems, carburetors remain in use due to their established familiarity and effectiveness in basic engine designs.
Fuel Type Compatibility: Some carbureted engines may handle different fuels, like low-octane or ethanol-based fuels, better than early fuel-injection systems, particularly in older or custom-built vehicles.