BHP, or brake horsepower, is a measurement of a car's engine power output, accounting for power losses from components like the gearbox, alternator, and water pump. It gives a more realistic representation of the usable power delivered by the engine.
Understanding Brake Horsepower
While horsepower (HP) measures an engine's theoretical power, BHP provides a more practical measurement.
- Accounting for Losses: BHP considers the power consumed by engine ancillaries, offering a more accurate indication of the power available to drive the wheels. The reference text indicates that BHP "considers the power left over after the gearbox, alternator and water pump are working as well as any loss of power due to friction."
- Real-World Performance: Because BHP factors in power losses, it better reflects the actual performance you can expect from a vehicle.
- Comparison to PS: The reference mentions PS (PferdStarke) as the metric equivalent of horsepower, equaling approximately 98.6% of one HP.
BHP vs. Horsepower (HP)
| Feature | Horsepower (HP) | Brake Horsepower (BHP) |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement | Theoretical Engine Power | Real-world power after accounting for losses due to friction and accessories |
| Accuracy | Less Accurate | More Accurate |
| Practicality | Less Practical | More Practical |
| Ancillary Losses | Does not account for them | Accounts for losses from gearbox, alternator, water pump, and friction |
In summary, BHP offers a more realistic and useful measure of a car's engine output compared to standard horsepower, as it reflects the power effectively available after accounting for various mechanical losses.
