0-60 Calculator
Calculate vehicle acceleration time and distance
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Select your unit system (imperial for mph or metric for km/h)
- Enter the initial speed (usually 0)
- Enter the final speed (60 mph or 100 km/h by default)
- Enter the vehicle's acceleration in m/s²
- Click calculate to see the time and distance results
What is 0-60 Time?
The 0-60 time is a measure of a vehicle's acceleration performance, representing the time it takes to accelerate from a standstill (0 mph) to 60 miles per hour. In metric countries, this is often measured as 0-100 km/h.
This metric is commonly used by automotive manufacturers and enthusiasts to compare vehicle performance. Faster 0-60 times indicate more powerful engines and better acceleration capabilities.
The Physics Behind Acceleration
This calculator uses fundamental kinematic equations from physics:
- v = u + at (final velocity = initial velocity + acceleration × time)
- s = ut + ½at² (distance = initial velocity × time + ½ × acceleration × time²)
- Acceleration is measured in meters per second squared (m/s²)
These equations assume constant acceleration, which is a simplification. In reality, vehicle acceleration varies based on gear changes, traction, and other factors.
Typical Acceleration Values
| Vehicle Type | 0-60 mph Time | Typical Acceleration |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Car | 10-12 seconds | 2.5-3 m/s² |
| Average Car | 7-9 seconds | 3-4 m/s² |
| Performance Car | 4-6 seconds | 5-7 m/s² |
| Sports Car | 3-4 seconds | 7-9 m/s² |
| Supercar | 2-3 seconds | 9-12 m/s² |
Factors Affecting Real-World Acceleration
Several factors influence a vehicle's actual 0-60 time:
- Engine power and torque output
- Vehicle weight and weight distribution
- Tire grip and road surface conditions
- Transmission type and gear ratios
- Aerodynamic drag at higher speeds
- Weather conditions (temperature, humidity)
- Driver skill and launch technique
- Altitude and air density
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a good 0-60 time?
- For regular cars, 7-9 seconds is average. Performance cars typically achieve 4-6 seconds, while supercars can do it in under 3 seconds. Electric vehicles are increasingly achieving impressive times due to instant torque delivery.
- Why do I need to input acceleration in m/s²?
- Meters per second squared (m/s²) is the standard SI unit for acceleration in physics. It represents how much velocity changes per second. Typical cars have accelerations between 3-5 m/s², while sports cars can exceed 10 m/s².
- How do I find my car's acceleration rate?
- You can estimate it from your car's published 0-60 time, or use a GPS-based smartphone app to measure it. Alternatively, performance testing equipment can provide accurate measurements.
- Why is the calculated time different from my car's published 0-60 time?
- This calculator assumes constant acceleration, but real vehicles don't accelerate uniformly. Gear changes, traction limits, and aerodynamic drag all affect real-world performance. Published times are measured under optimal conditions by professional drivers.