How to Calculate CC to Horsepower

Converting cubic centimeters (CC) to horsepower isn’t a direct conversion because horsepower depends on many factors beyond just engine size. However, you can estimate horsepower using these general formulas:

General Conversion Formulas:

• Small engines: HP = CC ÷ 25
• Motorcycle engines: HP = CC ÷ 15
• Car engines: HP = CC ÷ 14 to CC ÷ 17
• High-performance engines: HP = CC ÷ 10 to CC ÷ 12
• Diesel engines: HP = CC ÷ 20 to CC ÷ 25

Example Conversions:

Engine Type	Displacement (CC)	Estimated HP
Small Engine	250 CC	10 HP (250 ÷ 25)
Motorcycle	600 CC	40 HP (600 ÷ 15)
Car Engine	2000 CC	120-140 HP
High-Performance	1000 CC	80-100 HP

Factors Affecting Horsepower Output

While engine displacement (CC) is important, these factors also significantly impact horsepower:

1. Engine Design

• Number of cylinders
• Valve configuration (OHV, OHC, DOHC)
• Combustion chamber design

2. Forced Induction

• Turbochargers can double horsepower
• Superchargers typically add 30-50% more power

3. Fuel System

• Fuel injection vs. carburetion
• Octane rating of fuel

4. Other Factors

• Compression ratio
• Engine cooling system
• Exhaust system design

FAQs on CC to Horsepower Conversion Calculator

Is higher CC always better?

Not necessarily. While larger engines (higher CC) typically produce more power, modern smaller engines with turbochargers can often outperform larger naturally aspirated engines while being more fuel efficient.

Why do some small CC engines make more HP than larger ones?

This is due to differences in engine technology. Factors like turbocharging, higher compression ratios, and advanced fuel injection can make a small engine outperform a larger, less technologically advanced engine.

How accurate is this CC to HP calculator?

Our calculator provides estimates within 10-15% of actual values for stock engines. For modified engines, the actual horsepower may vary significantly.