0-60 mph / 0-100 kmh Calculator
0-100 km h: 0.0 s
Estimates use power-to-weight; real-world times depend on traction & gearing.
0-60 mph & 0-100 kmh Time Acceleration Guide
Few numbers define a performance car like its 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) sprint. By combining a vehicle’s curb weight with its engine output you can predict that dash surprisingly well—useful when bench-racing or planning mods.
Formula Behind the Calculator
0-60 time (s) = 2.8 × (weight lb ÷ horsepower)0.33
The 2.8
constant and 0.33
exponent are derived from a regression of magazine-tested cars ranging from hot-hatches to supercars. Expect ±0.3 s variance depending on traction, gearing, aero drag and launch technique.
Example Calculation
A 3 500 lb coupe with 300 hp gives:
t = 2.8 × (3500 ÷ 300)0.33 = 2.8 × 2.25 = 6.3 s (0-60 mph) → approx. 6.5 s to 100 km/h.
What Affects Real-World 0-60 Times?
- Traction & tires – sticky compounds can shave 0.2-0.5 s.
- Gearing & shift speed – shorter first gears launch harder.
- Drivetrain type – AWD hooks up; FWD may wheel-hop.
- Elevation & air density – thin air reduces engine output.
- Driver technique – reaction + clutch/throttle modulation.
FAQ
How accurate is this 0-60 calculator?
Within ±0.3 s for most stock vehicles. It assumes an ideal launch and ignores traction limits; high-power RWD cars on street tires may run slower.
Should I input wheel horsepower (WHP) or crank horsepower?
Use crank horsepower (manufacturer rating). If you only have WHP, first convert it to HP with our WHP→HP calculator, then use that figure here.
Does weight include the driver?
Yes. Add ~180 lb (82 kg) for the driver and any cargo to curb weight for the most realistic estimate.
Why is 0-100 km h about 4 % slower than 0-60 mph?
60 mph equals 96.6 km/h; 100 km/h is 62.1 mph, so you’re accelerating an extra 2 mph at the top, adding roughly 0.04× time.
How can I improve my 0-60 time?
Increase power, reduce weight, fit stickier tires, optimise gearing or adopt launch control to cut reaction and wheelspin.