1. What is the Quarter Mile Equation?

The Quarter Mile Equation estimates the elapsed time (ET) for a vehicle to complete a 1/4 mile drag race based on weight and horsepower. It provides a theoretical performance benchmark for drag racing vehicles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Quarter Mile equation:

Where:

• \( ET \) — Elapsed Time (seconds)
• \( WT \) — Vehicle Weight (pounds)
• \( HP \) — Horsepower (hp)

Explanation: The equation demonstrates the cubic relationship between power-to-weight ratio and quarter mile time, where reducing weight or increasing horsepower significantly improves performance.

3. Importance of ET Calculation

Details: Accurate ET estimation is crucial for drag racing enthusiasts to predict vehicle performance, compare different setups, and optimize their vehicles for better quarter mile times.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter vehicle weight in pounds and horsepower in hp. Both values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this equation?
A: This provides a theoretical estimate. Actual performance may vary based on traction, aerodynamics, driver skill, and other factors.

Q2: What is a good quarter mile time?
A: For production cars, times range from 11-16 seconds. Professional drag cars can achieve times under 7 seconds.

Q3: Does this account for drivetrain loss?
A: No, this calculation uses raw horsepower. For wheel horsepower, you may need to adjust the input value accordingly.

Q4: Can this be used for motorcycles?
A: Yes, the equation works for any vehicle, though motorcycle aerodynamics and weight distribution may affect actual results.

Q5: How can I improve my quarter mile time?
A: Reduce weight, increase horsepower, improve traction, and optimize aerodynamics for better performance.