How is Horsepower Rated across the Pond? (Top Gear TV Show)

[Scott Larson]

Horsepower at the rear wheels is always less then at the crank because of parasitic drag throughout the drivetrain. I believe it's measured the same regardless the country of origin, at the crank, when it comes to manufacturers claimed horsepower. The higher number is more impressive even though that's not the ponies at the rear wheels where it counts. I'm with you on the Top Gear addiction, I now have 78 episodes TiVo'd!

[RickOKC]

All cars lose a percentage of power through the drive train. All car manufacturers say that their engines produce "X" hp but what they fail to neglect to mention how much the transmission and other gear boxes (if applicable) eat up. Not to mention all cars are different so each one's drive train will eat up a different amount of power.

That is just what I learned growing up if anyone cares to correct me by all means do so now as I am not an expert.

Horsepower at the rear wheels is always less then at the crank because of parasitic drag throughout the drivetrain. I believe it's measured the same regardless the country of origin, at the crank, when it comes to manufacturers claimed horsepower. The higher number is more impressive even though that's not the ponies at the rear wheels where it counts. I'm with you on the Top Gear addiction, I now have 78 episodes TiVo'd!

Agree and agree! I just wondered if HP is measured differently in the UK since the guys always seem surprised about the "missing" HP.

Oh yeah, and the first episode of the US version airs Sunday Nov 21 on the History Channel. Good luck.

[Scott Harness]

Oh yeah, and the first episode of the US version airs Sunday Nov 21 on the History Channel. Good luck.

It will probably suck.The show is good because of the personalities and chemistry of those three guys who host the show!

[Triathlete]

It will probably suck.The show is good because of the personalities and chemistry of those three guys who host the show!

Yep, I agree 100%. I saw the preview and don't think I will be part of there viewing audience. Another aspect I like about the original is the cars we don't get to see over here!

[RickOKC]

It will probably suck.The show is good because of the personalities and chemistry of those three guys who host the show!

Yep, I agree 100%. I saw the preview and don't think I will be part of there viewing audience. Another aspect I like about the original is the cars we don't get to see over here!

All of these points are exactly how I feel about it. I do plan on giving it a chance, though.