BHP per Tonne vs Torque
Hi all
I read in Chris's book and other books about the minimum BHP per tonne required for a good overlander, but this figure does not consider torque?
I am restoring a 1963 FC Land Rover and it is fitted with a 4236 Perkins. Looking at the bhp figure for this engine it is under powered, but when testing the engine in a RR it pulled like a train. We loaded it up, added a fully loaded car transporter and it still pulled like a train?? Which raise the following questions:
Why is torque not considered in these calculation? Have Turbo engines made everyone think about revs and bhp? Which is better for desert driving, high torque at low revs or as on modern turbo engines, torque higher up the rev range? Do Jap turbo diesel engines suffer from reduced power before the turbo cuts in???
I know the limitations of the vehicle I am restoring and am only using it as an example. I am a big fan of simplicity and would like you views on the questions above bases on your experiences in the desert. I, unfortunatly have no expectence on driving on sand, unless driving on Ainsdale beach, nr. Southport counts?
Cheers Mick
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