Engine Horsepower Calculator

Estimate engine horsepower from torque and RPM using the standard HP formula.

lb-ft
Guides & Reference

How It Works

HP = Torque (ft-lb) x RPM / 5252. Constant 5252 converts units. At 5252 RPM torque and HP curves always cross.

Formula

HP = (Torque x RPM) / 5252

Quick Reference

Common calculations — results you can verify instantly.

200 ft-lb, 5000 RPM

200×5000/5252

190 HP

500 ft-lb, 4000 RPM

500×4000/5252

381 HP

Torque = HP at 5252 RPM

Always

Curves always cross here

Tips & Shortcuts

Torque and HP are numerically equal at exactly 5252 RPM.

Wheel HP is 10-20% less than engine HP due to drivetrain losses.

Common Mistakes

Confusing SAE and metric HP

1 PS metric = 0.986 SAE HP. Nearly identical.

Equating engine HP with wheel HP

Drivetrain loses 10-20% before reaching wheels.

Frequently Asked Questions

74,570 watts = 74.6 kW.

Torque accelerates from rest. HP maintains speed at velocity.

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