The paper presents theoretical and experimanetal research into the process of charge exchange in a spark ignition engine (the process of cylinder filling and discharging). A significant role in the inlet system plays the resistance of the flow of a fresh charge through the throttle, particularly when its partially opened. In classic spark ignition engine solutions this flow resistance is a part of the engine load imposition. The problem has been illustrated by the theoretical and experimental test results of the influence of the pressure drop Δpd on the side of the fresh charge flow and the pressure drop Δpw in the exhaust system on the engine operation. Relations have been determined between the engine operating parameters and the flow conditions of the charge/exhaust gases.