Drag Racing ET Calculator

Drag Racing ET Equation:

\[ ET = \frac{1350}{PWR^{1/3}} \]

Elapsed Time (ET):

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1. What is the Drag Racing ET Equation?

The Drag Racing ET (Elapsed Time) equation estimates quarter-mile elapsed time based on power-to-weight ratio. It provides a theoretical calculation of how quickly a vehicle can complete a quarter-mile drag strip.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Drag Racing ET equation:

\[ ET = \frac{1350}{PWR^{1/3}} \]

Where:

\( ET \) — Elapsed Time (seconds)
\( PWR \) — Power to Weight Ratio (horsepower per pound)

Explanation: The equation demonstrates the relationship between power-to-weight ratio and quarter-mile performance, with better power-to-weight ratios resulting in faster elapsed times.

3. Importance of ET Calculation

Details: Accurate ET estimation is crucial for drag racing enthusiasts, vehicle tuners, and performance analysts to predict vehicle performance, compare different setups, and set realistic performance goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power-to-weight ratio in hp/lb. The value must be greater than zero. Lower ET values indicate better performance.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a good ET for drag racing?
A: Professional drag cars can achieve ETs under 7 seconds, while street-legal performance cars typically range from 11-14 seconds. Stock family cars are usually 15+ seconds.

Q2: How accurate is this theoretical calculation?
A: This provides a theoretical baseline. Actual ET depends on traction, driver skill, transmission type, weather conditions, and many other factors.

Q3: What power-to-weight ratio is needed for specific ET goals?
A: Rearranging the formula: PWR = (1350/ET)³. For example, a 12-second ET requires approximately 1.42 hp/lb.

Q4: Does this work for all types of vehicles?
A: The formula works best for rear-wheel drive vehicles with good traction. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles may have different performance characteristics.

Q5: Why use the cube root in the formula?
A: The cube root relationship accounts for the non-linear acceleration characteristics as speed increases and aerodynamic drag becomes more significant.