What does torque mean?
2 Answers
Torque refers to the rotational force output by the engine from the crankshaft end. Under constant power conditions, it has an inverse relationship with engine speed - the faster the speed, the smaller the torque, and vice versa. It reflects a vehicle's load capacity within a certain range. External torque is called torsion or external couple moment, while internal torque is called internal couple moment or simply torque. For passenger cars, greater torque means better acceleration; for off-road vehicles, greater torque enables steeper climbing ability; for trucks, greater torque allows for heavier loads. Generally, higher torque is better for vehicles, and this holds true during driving as well. For engines with the same displacement, greater torque indicates a superior engine.
Having driven for half my life, I understand that torque is the car's seemingly endless reserve of power. Especially when starting at a traffic light, a car with high torque leaps forward with just a light tap on the accelerator, as if being pushed from behind. Last time I helped my neighbor move, my pickup truck was fully loaded with furniture and didn't struggle at all going uphill—that's torque doing its work. The more torque an engine delivers at low RPMs, the easier it is to haul heavy loads or climb hills. However, torque plays a much smaller role during high-speed cruising, where horsepower takes the lead. When choosing a car, it's important to consider its intended use. If you frequently drive on mountain roads or tow trailers, prioritize low-RPM torque. For city commuting, it's less of a concern.
