Horsepower to Weight Ratio Calculator

HP/W Ratio Formula:

\[ \text{HP/W} = \frac{\text{HP}}{\text{W}} \]

HP/W Ratio (HP/lb):

Definition: The horsepower-to-weight ratio measures a vehicle's power relative to its weight, indicating performance potential.

Purpose: It helps compare vehicle performance across different sizes and types, important for automotive enthusiasts and engineers.

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{HP/W} = \frac{\text{HP}}{\text{W}} \]

Where:

Explanation: Higher ratios indicate better acceleration and performance potential as more power is available per unit of weight.

Details: This ratio is crucial for performance vehicles, racing applications, and comparing vehicles of different classes.

Tips: Enter the vehicle's horsepower and weight in pounds. Both values must be > 0.

Q1: What's a good HP/W ratio?
A: For street cars, 0.1 HP/lb is excellent. Race cars often exceed 0.2 HP/lb.

Q2: Should I use curb weight or gross weight?
A: For performance comparisons, use curb weight (empty vehicle weight).

Q3: How does this compare to power-to-weight in kg?
A: 1 HP/lb = 2.2046 HP/kg. Divide HP by kg weight for metric calculations.

Q4: Why is this ratio important for acceleration?
A: Acceleration depends directly on the power-to-weight ratio (Newton's Second Law).

Q5: Does this account for drivetrain losses?
A: No, use wheel horsepower (measured at wheels) for more accurate real-world performance estimates.