Considering horsepower (hp) and torque separately is a common mistake that confuse car buyers in determining the performance of a certain vehicle. Knowing these two concepts is necessary to pick the best car that suits one’s need and preferred speed from the variety of models and brands. Customers must understand that horsepower and torque are related and both needed to move a car. There must be a good balance between the two specs to ensure a satisfying car performance.
Here are some of the latest cars with high horsepower list ed by Autobytel.com, an automotive media and marketing service company that provides information on new and used vehicles, which is also available in the local market.
Ford Mustang GT
Ford Mustang, which has known for its remarkable performance and style, comes in five engines that deliver great power. The 3.7-liter V6 engine delivers 300 hp and 280 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.3 liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder and the GT’s 5.0-liter V8 cranks out 310 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque, and 435 hp and 400 pound-feet of torque, respectively. Among its line-up, the 5.2 liter V8 for the Shelby GT350 and GT350R Mustang boasts the most impressive performance with both 526 hp and 429 pound-feet of torque.
Volkswagen Golf R
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf R is one of the most powerful four-cylinder production engines in the market. It has 292 hp and 280 pound-feet of turn-twisting torque, taking zero to 60 miles per hour (MPH) speed of light for not more than five seconds. Golf R greatly combines torque and handling that makes driving easier in any road condition. It can be paired to either a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic or manual transmission.
Ford Fusion Sport
Apart from its intimidating look that comes with black mesh grille, a decklid spoiler and exhaust pipes that complements its 19-inch wheels design, the 2017 Ford Fusion Sport boasts a powerful performance with the 2.7 liter, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost that pumps out 325 hp and 380 pound-feet of torque. As the Autobytel.com says, “It’s a performance bargain to boot, capable of a 0-60 MPH time in the 5-second range, with and a quarter-mile elapsed time under 14.5 seconds.” Like other EcoBoost vehicles, the Fusion Sport benefits from high-octane fuel.
Dodge Challenger R/T
With its iconic two-door muscle car style, the latest Dodge Challenger R/T comes with a plethora of engine versions that can be mated either to a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. The 3.6-liter PENTASTAR V6 engine provides up to 305 hp and 268 pound-feet of torque, featuring a dual overhead camshafts, high-flow intake and exhaust ports and stellar 30 highway miles per gallon (mpg). The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 delivers 375 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque that gets up to 25 highway mpg. While the 392 HEMI V8 engine has a 485 horsepower, 475 pound-feet of torque, zero to 60 mph in the low four-second range and a quarter-mile in the mid 12-second range. Lastly, the 6.2 liter HEMI V8 Hellcat boasts a monstrous 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque.
Chevrolet SS
The four-door sports sedan, Chevrolet SS, has something more to boast aside from its standard 6.2-liter V8 engine that provides 415 hp and 415 pound-feet of torque. It features a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes and a standard dual-mode exhaust, making it as agile as a sports car with the refinement of a sedan. It can be paired with both six-speed automatic and manual transmissions, taking zero to 60 MPH in only 4.7 seconds.
Ford Focus RS
Exhibiting a sleek, aerodynamic design coupled with powerful performance, the 2017 Focus RS is designed for any adventure. Its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine brings 350 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque, exclusively mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It is equipped with Ford Performance All-Wheel-Drive System that intelligently distributes the power for maximum benefit, both front and rear as well as left and right. It also features a driver-selectable suspension settings that allows the driver to change the ride to suit his style.
Dodge Charger R/T
From heart-pounding power to impressive efficiency, the 2017 Dodge Charger carries a legendary riding experience. Considering performance as its driving force, the Dodge Charger also comes with four versions. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 teamed with the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, which can get up to 300 hp and 264 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 and 392 HEMI V8 churns out 370 hp and 395 pound-feet of torque, and 485 hp and 475 pound-feet of torque, respectively. Staying on top with 707 hp and 650 pound-feet of torque is the Supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI SRT Hellcat V8.
Chevrolet Camaro SS
The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS sets a new benchmark of power with its trio of traditional rear-wheel drive, American two-door muscle coupes. The 2.0-liter Turbo SIDI engine, which is the base engine in the Camaro 1LT, delivers 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 3.6-liter V6 DI engine produces 335 HP and 284 pound-feet of torque. For a more powerful car performance, the 6.2-liter V8 DI engine is also available that pumps out 455 HP and 455 pound-feet of torque. — Mark Louis F. Ferrolino
