Top Speed Calculation

The top speed calculation determines the theoretical top speed (based on gearing, redline, etc.) and whether the car has enough power to reach that speed. If not, the maximum speed is calculated. Power and fuel requirements are indicated. Uphill or downhill road grades and head winds or tail winds can be specified.

Enter vehicle weight, drag coefficient, frontal area, tire pressure, brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), gear ratio, differential ratio, tire diameter, power, maximum engine speed (redline), altitude, road grade (positive or negative), and head wind or tail wind speed. Calculate speed at redline, power required to reach redline, power shortage if inadequate to reach redline, actual top speed based on power, weight to power ratio, fuel consumption rate, and final drive ratio.