0 To 60 Time Estimate Calculator

Work out 0 to 60 time estimate instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.

About 0 To 60 Time Estimate Calculator

Acceleration correlates with the power-to-weight ratio, and an empirical fit of the form time = k x (weight/power)^0.75 matches real cars well. Front-wheel drive is penalised because weight transfers off the driven wheels under acceleration.

Formula

Acceleration estimate

t(0-60) approx 5.825 x (weight/power)^0.75, adjusted for drivetrain traction

Worked example

With the default values below, 0 To 60 Time Estimate Calculator returns 0-60 mph time of 29.22. Change any input above and every figure here is recalculated in your browser.

Inputs used

Engine power: 180 hp
Kerb weight: 1,350 kg
Drivetrainone of Front wheel drive, Rear wheel drive, All wheel drive: Front wheel drive
Additional load: 80 kg

Results

0-60 mph time: 29.22 s
Power to weight ratio: 125.87 hp/t
0-100 km/h time: 30.68 s
Total weight: 1,430.00 kg

Step by step

1Values used
2Acceleration estimate
30-60 mph time= 29.22 s
4Power to weight ratio= 125.87 hp/t
50-100 km/h time= 30.68 s
6Total weight= 1,430.00 kg

Assumptions and limits

The result is derived only from the 4 inputs listed above. Anything not among them is not part of the calculation.
In particular, this calculator does not take inflation, tax or compounding frequency into account.
Figures are rounded for display to 2 decimal places, so totals built from several rounded parts can differ slightly from the unrounded arithmetic.

How these calculators are built and tested is described on the Methodology page. If a figure looks wrong, please report it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why the 0.75 exponent rather than a linear relation?

Because traction, gearing and aerodynamic drag all intervene. Empirical fits across many cars converge on an exponent near three quarters.

Why is AWD quicker off the line?

All four tyres share the tractive effort, so far more power can be used in the first two seconds before traction ceases to be the limit.