How to convert horsepower to metric horsepower
To convert a measurement in horsepower to metric horsepower, multiply the value by 1.01387. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the watt.
For example, to convert 5 hp to metric horsepower: 5 × 1.01387 = 5.069348 PS.
What is a horsepower?
Mechanical horsepower (hp) is a unit of power equal to about 745.7 watts, originally defined to compare engine output to the work of draft horses. James Watt coined horsepower in the 1780s to market his steam engines against the horses they replaced. Mechanical horsepower remains the dominant unit for engine power in the United States.
Common uses of horsepower include: Car and motorcycle engine ratings (US); Lawn mowers and power tools; Marine and outboard motors; Comparing engine performance.
What is a metric horsepower?
Metric horsepower (PS or cv) is a unit of power equal to exactly 735.49875 watts, slightly less than mechanical horsepower. Defined in continental Europe, metric horsepower (from the German 'Pferdestärke', PS) is the traditional unit for car engine power in Europe and Japan, where figures are often quoted in PS.
Common uses of metric horsepower include: European and Japanese car engine ratings; Motorcycle power specifications; Comparing PS to hp and kW; Automotive marketing figures.
Horsepower to metric horsepower worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 hp = 1.01387 PS 5 hp = 5.069348 PS 10 hp = 10.138697 PS 50 hp = 50.693483 PS 100 hp = 101.386967 PS
Frequently asked questions
How many metric horsepower are in one horsepower?
One horsepower (hp) equals 1.01387 metric horsepower (PS). Multiply any value in horsepower by 1.01387 to convert to metric horsepower.
How do I convert horsepower to metric horsepower?
Multiply the value in horsepower by 1.01387. For example, 5 hp × 1.01387 = 5.069348 PS.
How do I convert metric horsepower to horsepower?
Multiply the value in metric horsepower by 0.98632007062, or divide by 1.01387. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the horsepower to metric horsepower conversion exact?
Mechanical horsepower is defined as exactly 745.7 W and metric horsepower as 735.49875 W. SI conversions are exact.
What is the formula for horsepower to metric horsepower?
The formula is: PS = hp × 1.01387. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the watt.