Mxsmanic,

You'd think that the engine would be
able to measure the static air pressure and adjust the mixture for
itself.


Compare the productoin numbers of aircraft piston engines and car
engines. All of GA probably buys as many engines per year as Ford
installs in a day. The money for FAA-certified (!) innovation simply
isn't in it. Thus, we have engines that are, technologically speaking,
over 50 years old. Think fixed timing, magneto ignition, abysmal
efficiency, huge displacement. The only exception is the Thielert
diesel based on a modern car design, just coming to market with great
success.

--
Thomas Borchert (EDDH)