What is Horsepower in Cars? This is its Function & the Difference with Torque
When you read catalogs or references on the internet about the car you want to buy, there is certainly the term horsepower. This term may be unfamiliar to some people, especially those who are still novice in the automotive field. So what is horsepower actually? Let's find out more information here!
What is Horsepower?
Horsepower, when translated into Indonesian, means horse power. Historically, this term was initially discovered by a Scottish engineer to describe the ability of a pony to lift loads in a short time. In the engineer's research, the pony was able to lift a load weighing 249.4 kg or about 550 pounds at a speed of 30.48 cm/second. Thus, the pony could cover a distance of 1,828.8 cm/minute.
The engineer's finding was eventually used as a calculation measure for 1 HP (horsepower). This calculation was then used to compare the pulling performance of horses with steam engines. Later, this calculation was adopted to measure the power of car engines. In modern times, the calculation for horsepower itself is equivalent to 735 watts to 745 watts. As for today, the standard calculation for horsepower has been changed to 746 watts for 1 horsepower.
Function of Horsepower
Horsepower itself functions as the power that allows the car to move and accelerate even while carrying a relatively heavy load. The amount of horsepower produced depends on how much the driver presses the gas pedal. Horsepower is also often used as a standard for car engine power, especially for sports cars.
How Horsepower Works
As explained above, the way horsepower works only activates when the driver presses the gas pedal. The deeper you press the gas pedal and increase the car's transmission gear, the greater the horsepower produced.
Difference Between Horsepower and Torque
In addition to the term horsepower, when you read car catalogs or specifications, you will certainly encounter other terms such as torque. So what is the difference between these two terms? To satisfy your curiosity, let's take a look at the following review.
1. In terms of meaning
The first difference can be distinguished in terms of meaning or definition. As explained above, horsepower is a term used to describe the power of a car engine. This power occurs when the driver presses the gas pedal. Meanwhile, torque is a form of energy obtained from the car engine. This energy appears when the car is started, even when the car is stationary and not moving, this energy will still exist. This energy will later be used to push the car's wheels so that the car can move when it is accelerated.
2. In terms of units
Horsepower has the unit HP (short for horsepower). In addition, the horsepower unit is also referred to as PS (Pferdestarke). The PS unit itself comes from the German language, and this term is sometimes used by other countries, including Indonesia. Meanwhile, torque has the unit Newton Meter (Nm) or Kgm. From these units, it can be concluded that horsepower is closely related to the speed of the car. Meanwhile, torque is closely related to the acceleration of the car.
Although both have different functions, horsepower and torque are both important in a car. Because both affect the performance of the car produced.
If you are interested in buying a car with high horsepower and torque, you can purchase Daihatsu cars. In addition to having a powerful engine, Daihatsu cars are relatively affordable. Not only that, Daihatsu cars are also known for their fuel efficiency, making them more wallet-friendly. What are you waiting for? Let's buy a Daihatsu car now.
