Question to those that know...

[Bullitt4711]

Ok here is my question:

Given that two cars have accurate dynos from the same location and both are correct, will the car with the higher peak horsepower or the car with the higher average horsepower go faster down the strip. How would each affect ET numbers as well as trap speed of the two cars. What is generally more desirable and why?

~Colby

 

[JonJon]

If they have equal peak HP, the one with the flatter torque/HP curve (higher average). If you peak at 400 HP but only have an average of 200, a car with a peak of 350 but average of 300 will be faster.

 

[killbee]

If they have equal peak HP, the one with the flatter torque/HP curve (higher average). If you peak at 400 HP but only have an average of 200, a car with a peak of 350 but average of 300 will be faster.

Thats true but it also depends on the driver, lower hp cars can get there quicker with a good driver. Also remember peak #'s are not everything because its almost impossible to keep your car at that peak # for the entire time during a run. Just my .02.

 

[Bullitt4711]

Thanks for the response. Varifies what I thought.

~Colby

 

[GT2000JAY]

Also take into consideration that the power from launch RPM to around 4750-5250 is only used in first gear. So, you're really primarily talking about average horsepower/torque under the curve from the point where the RPM's land after a shift for 2-4 gears.