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0-60 MPH Calculator

Curious how fast your car could hit 60? Enter your horsepower, curb weight, and drivetrain type to get an estimated 0-60 mph time, quarter mile, and power-to-weight ratio. Useful for comparing stock specs, planning modifications, or just settling arguments.

This calculator uses an empirically-tuned power-to-weight formula along with the Hale formula for quarter mile estimates. Real-world times vary based on traction, elevation, temperature, tire compound, and driver skill.

What affects 0-60 time:

  • Power-to-weight ratio -- the single biggest factor. Less weight and more power = faster.
  • Drivetrain -- AWD launches harder because all four tires grip. FWD can spin and bog at high power levels.
  • Transmission -- modern automatics and dual-clutch gearboxes shift faster than most humans can with a manual.
  • Tires -- sticky summer tires can knock 0.3-0.5 seconds off vs all-seasons.
  • Traction -- cold tires, wet pavement, or gravel will add time regardless of power.

Drivetrain losses:

  • FWD: ~15% loss from crank to wheels
  • RWD: ~15% loss from crank to wheels
  • AWD: ~20% loss (more drivetrain components), but better traction at launch

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