The phrase identifies a tool used to estimate the horsepower required for a vehicle to achieve a specific speed, in this case, one mile in eight seconds. This type of calculator typically considers factors like vehicle weight, aerodynamic drag, and rolling resistance to determine the necessary power output.
Accurate horsepower estimation is crucial for optimizing vehicle performance in motorsports and high-speed applications. Historically, these calculations were performed manually using complex formulas. The development of automated calculators has streamlined this process, allowing for faster and more precise performance predictions. The benefits include efficient engine selection, improved vehicle design, and reduced trial-and-error testing.