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Drag Racing ET Equation:
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The Drag Racing ET (Elapsed Time) equation estimates the quarter-mile elapsed time based on vehicle weight and horsepower. This empirical formula provides a quick estimation of drag racing performance for planning and comparison purposes.
The calculator uses the Drag Racing ET equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation demonstrates the cubic relationship between power-to-weight ratio and elapsed time, showing how small changes in either weight or horsepower can significantly affect quarter-mile times.
Details: Accurate ET estimation is crucial for drag racing enthusiasts, automotive engineers, and performance tuners to predict vehicle performance, set realistic goals, and optimize power-to-weight ratios for competitive racing.
Tips: Enter vehicle weight in pounds and engine horsepower. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator provides estimated quarter-mile elapsed time in seconds.
Q1: How accurate is this ET estimation?
A: This provides a theoretical estimation based on power-to-weight ratio. Actual ET can vary due to traction, aerodynamics, transmission efficiency, and driver skill.
Q2: What is considered a good quarter-mile time?
A: For street cars, 12-14 seconds is good performance. Professional drag cars can achieve 4-6 seconds. Times below 10 seconds require specialized equipment and safety features.
Q3: Does this account for drivetrain loss?
A: No, this calculation uses engine horsepower. For wheel horsepower, you may need to adjust the input value based on your vehicle's drivetrain efficiency.
Q4: Can I use this for different racing distances?
A: This equation is specifically calibrated for quarter-mile (1320 feet/402 meters) drag racing. Other distances would require different empirical constants.
Q5: What factors affect actual ET besides weight and horsepower?
A: Traction, tire compound, suspension setup, aerodynamics, weather conditions, altitude, and launch technique all significantly impact actual elapsed times.