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Quarter Mile ET Equation:
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The Quarter Mile ET (Elapsed Time) equation estimates the time it takes for a street car to complete a quarter mile drag race based on its weight and horsepower. This formula provides a theoretical estimation of a vehicle's performance in a straight-line acceleration test.
The calculator uses the Quarter Mile ET equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the theoretical elapsed time by considering the power-to-weight ratio of the vehicle, which is a critical factor in acceleration performance.
Details: Estimating quarter mile times helps automotive enthusiasts and professionals evaluate vehicle performance, compare different setups, and understand the impact of weight reduction or power increases on acceleration.
Tips: Enter the vehicle weight in pounds and the engine horsepower. Both values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.
Q1: How accurate is this ET calculation?
A: This formula provides a theoretical estimation. Actual quarter mile times may vary based on traction, drivetrain efficiency, aerodynamics, and driver skill.
Q2: Does this formula work for all types of vehicles?
A: This equation is specifically designed for street cars. It may not be accurate for highly modified race cars, motorcycles, or vehicles with exceptional aerodynamic properties.
Q3: What is a good quarter mile time for a street car?
A: For production street cars, times typically range from 12-16 seconds. Performance sports cars may achieve 10-12 seconds, while supercars can dip below 10 seconds.
Q4: How much does weight reduction affect ET?
A: Reducing weight has a significant impact on ET. Generally, every 100 pounds removed can improve ET by approximately 0.1 seconds.
Q5: Can I use this for tuning decisions?
A: While useful for estimations, actual tuning should be based on real-world testing and professional guidance, as many factors affect quarter mile performance.