What BHP Is My Car? Everything You Need to Know About Brake Horsepower
Ever wondered what’s really powering your car beyond the engine badge and trim level? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about performance, knowing what BHP is my car is a common (and important) question among drivers. But what does BHP actually mean—and how do you find out your car’s exact figure?
In this guide, we’ll break it down in simple terms: what BHP is, why it matters, and how you can check it yourself—without needing to be a mechanic.
What Does BHP Mean in Cars?
Let’s start with the basics. BHP stands for Brake Horsepower, and it’s a measurement of an engine’s power output before losses from the gearbox, alternator, and other components are factored in.
In simple terms:
BHP = the raw pulling power of your engine at its best.
Think of it like this: horsepower tells you how fast a car can go, while torque (another term you might hear) tells you how quickly it can get there.
How to Find Out What BHP Is My Car
There are a few easy ways to check your car’s BHP—even if you don’t have the owner’s manual lying around.
- Check Your V5C Logbook (UK) or Registration Papers
Some versions may list the power output in kilowatts (kW). To convert to BHP:
CopyEdit
1 kW = 1.341 BHP
- Use a Free Online Car Spec Tool
Several sites allow you to enter your car’s registration number or make and model to find detailed specs, including BHP:
- Parkers
- AutoTrader
- CarSpecs.net
- Look It Up in Your Owner’s Manual
The original manual usually contains engine specs, including BHP, torque, and max speed.
- Visit Manufacturer’s Website or Dealership
If you have a newer model, most manufacturers list BHP values under the “Specifications” section of your car model online.
Why Is BHP Important?
BHP isn’t just a number—it tells you a lot about your car’s performance potential.
Higher BHP Generally Means:
- Faster acceleration
- Better top speed
- More power for overtaking
However, it doesn’t always mean a better car. More BHP can also mean:
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Higher insurance premiums
- More emissions
So if you’re asking “what BHP is my car” because you’re thinking about modifying it or buying something new, consider the trade-offs.
What Affects a Car’s BHP?
Over time, your car’s BHP may decrease slightly due to:
- Engine wear and tear
- Poor maintenance
- Carbon buildup
- Faulty spark plugs or filters
If you’re keen to know your current output precisely, you can have your car tested on a dyno (dynamometer)—a machine that measures real-time power output.
BHP vs HP vs PS – Are They the Same?
Not quite. You might see different power units floating around. Here’s how they compare:
| Unit | Meaning | Conversion |
| BHP | Brake Horsepower | Used in UK, more accurate |
| HP | Horsepower | American equivalent (slightly less than BHP) |
| PS | Pferdestärke (Metric HP) | Common in Europe – 1 PS = 0.986 BHP |
So if your car’s spec says 150 PS, that’s about 147 BHP.
Example: Popular Cars and Their BHP
| Car Model | Engine Size | BHP |
| Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost | 1.0L | 99 BHP |
| VW Golf GTI | 2.0L Turbo | 245 BHP |
| BMW 3 Series 320d | 2.0L Diesel | 190 BHP |
| Audi A3 1.5 TFSI | 1.5L Petrol | 150 BHP |
FAQs About Car BHP
How do I check what BHP is my car?
You can use your logbook, check online tools like Parkers or AutoTrader, or consult your owner’s manual. BHP is also listed in some insurance documents.
Does higher BHP mean faster car?
Generally yes—but speed also depends on weight, torque, gearing, and aerodynamics.
Is BHP the same as HP?
Not exactly. BHP is a UK standard that measures power before losses. HP (used in the US) is similar but measured slightly differently.
Can BHP be increased?
Yes. Engine remapping, turbo upgrades, and performance air filters can increase BHP. But be cautious—modifications can impact your insurance and warranty.
Does fuel type affect BHP?
It can. Diesel engines often have lower BHP but higher torque, while petrol and hybrid engines may balance both.
Final Thoughts: Why Knowing Your Car’s BHP Matters
So, the next time someone asks, “what BHP is my car?” you’ll have more than just a number—you’ll understand what it means. From insurance premiums to performance on the road, BHP plays a key role in how your car drives, what it’s worth, and how much it’ll cost to run.
Knowing your BHP also helps you:
- Make smarter car purchases
- Tune your car properly
- Stay informed when modifying or selling