Horsepower Trap Speed Calculator

Formula

To calculate the Trap Speed (TS):

\[ TS = 234 \times \left( \frac{HP}{W} \right)^{\frac{1}{3}} \]

Where:

\(TS\) is the Trap Speed in miles per hour (mph)
\(HP\) is the Horsepower
\(W\) is the Weight in pounds (lbs)

What is Horsepower Trap Speed?

Horsepower trap speed is a measure used in drag racing to estimate the power output of a vehicle based on its weight and the speed it achieves at the end of a quarter-mile run. The trap speed is the speed of the vehicle as it crosses the finish line. This measurement helps in understanding the vehicle’s performance and efficiency in converting horsepower into speed. Higher trap speeds generally indicate more powerful and efficient vehicles.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Horsepower (\(HP\)) = 400
Weight (\(W\)) = 3000 pounds

Using the formula:

\[ TS = 234 \times \left( \frac{400}{3000} \right)^{\frac{1}{3}} = 234 \times 0.144 = 33.70 \text{ mph} \]

The Trap Speed is 33.70 mph.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Horsepower (\(HP\)) = 600
Weight (\(W\)) = 3500 pounds

Using the formula:

\[ TS = 234 \times \left( \frac{600}{3500} \right)^{\frac{1}{3}} = 234 \times 0.165 = 38.61 \text{ mph} \]

The Trap Speed is 38.61 mph.