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Two numbers are commonly used in advertising a vehicle’s output: torque and horsepower.
Torque
When force is in a twisting motion it is called torque. Tightening a bolt with a wrench is an example of torque. A special wrench, a torque wrench, is used to tighten bolts to an exact specification.
Torque = Force x Lever Length
Crankshaft Torque
Torque is also used to describe the output rating of an engine, the crankshaft’s turning force.
Horsepower
A unit of power that is common in the automotive field is horsepower (hp). One horsepower is the work needed to lift 550 pounds a distance of 1 foot in 1 second.
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
Torque and horsepower change as engine speed (revolutions per minute or rpm) changes, so these ratings are given at a specific rpm.
