A broad analytical and experimental review of the governing parameters involved in piston engine design and optimization. Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, combustion, emissions, thermochemistry, dynamic and static loading, and fuel efficiency, as they apply to different engine cycles and types, are covered. Varied research examples from industry, government, and academia, with particular emphasis on automotive engine design, are analyzed from first principles. Students develop hands-on learning skills through computational and experimental assignments.