Car Culture HQ
Automotive Wiki

Engine

Horsepower

A unit measuring how quickly an engine can perform work — commonly quoted at the crank or wheels.

Definition

Wheel horsepower (WHP) accounts for drivetrain loss and is measured on a chassis dyno.

Advertised factory ratings are typically crank horsepower measured under controlled conditions.

Related terms

  • PistonA cylindrical component that moves up and down inside the cylinder, transferring
  • CrankshaftThe main rotating shaft that converts reciprocating piston motion into rotationa
  • CamshaftA shaft with lobes that open and close intake and exhaust valves at precise timi
  • Cylinder HeadThe top section of the engine housing valves, ports, and often the combustion ch
  • Engine BlockThe main structural casting that houses cylinders, crankshaft bearings, and ofte
  • ValvetrainThe assembly of valves, springs, retainers, rockers, and camshaft that controls

Category: Engine · Updated August 31, 2026