0-60 & Quarter Mile Calculator
Estimate your 0-60 mph time or quarter mile elapsed time and trap speed from vehicle weight and horsepower.
Est. 0-60 Time
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About This Calculator
This calculator provides rough performance estimates based on vehicle weight and horsepower. The 0-60 mph estimate uses the widely-cited Roger Huntington approximation. The quarter mile estimate uses the classic Hale formula: ET = 6.290 × (weight/hp)^(1/3) for elapsed time and trap speed = 234 × (hp/weight)^(1/3). These are theoretical estimates for naturally-aspirated, rear-wheel-drive cars on street tires -- actual results depend on traction, gearing, drivetrain losses, altitude, and weather.
FAQ
How accurate are these estimates?
These formulas give a ballpark within 5-15% of real-world results. Actual times depend on traction, drivetrain losses, aerodynamics, altitude, and driver skill. Forced-induction and electric cars may differ significantly.
What formula is used for 0-60?
The 0-60 estimate uses a power-to-weight ratio approach: t = (weight_lbs / hp)^0.5 × 0.6568. This is derived from empirical curve-fitting of production car data.
What is trap speed?
Trap speed is the vehicle's speed at the end of the quarter mile. It is a strong indicator of engine power and is calculated as 234 × (hp / weight_lbs)^(1/3) mph.
Should I use curb weight or test weight?
For the most realistic estimates, use test weight: curb weight plus the driver (roughly 150-170 lbs / 70-80 kg). Using curb weight alone will give slightly optimistic results.