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Convert between Newton-meters (Nm), foot-pounds (lb-ft), inch-pounds, kilogram-meters, and kilogram-centimeters. Essential for automotive engine specs, bolt tightening, and mechanical engineering calculations.
Torque is a rotational force — the tendency of a force to rotate an object around an axis. It is the product of force and the distance from the pivot point. Torque is critical in automotive engineering (engine output, lug nut tightening), structural engineering, and any mechanical system involving rotation.
The Newton-meter (Nm) is the SI unit of torque. European cars and most international engineering specs use Nm. 1 Nm = the torque produced by 1 Newton of force applied at 1 meter from the pivot. Modern car engines produce 150-500 Nm of torque. Electric motors often produce over 1,000 Nm.
The foot-pound (lb-ft) is the US customary unit of torque. US car specs, torque wrenches sold in the US, and American engineering documents use lb-ft. 1 lb-ft = the torque from 1 pound of force at 1 foot distance = 1.3558 Nm. A typical car engine: 150-350 lb-ft of torque.
Torque determines how quickly a vehicle can accelerate, especially at low RPMs. More torque = better pulling power. Electric vehicles produce maximum torque from 0 RPM, which is why EVs accelerate so quickly compared to gasoline engines that build torque as RPM increases.
| Input | lb-ft / Nm | kgm | in-lb |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Nm | 73.76 lb-ft | 10.197 kgm | 885 in-lb |
| 200 Nm | 147.5 lb-ft | 20.39 kgm | 1,770 in-lb |
| 400 Nm | 295.1 lb-ft | 40.79 kgm | 3,540 in-lb |
| 100 lb-ft | 135.6 Nm | 13.83 kgm | 1,200 in-lb |