What does the term "torque" refer to in engine specifications?

Torque refers to the rotational force that an engine generates to turn the crankshaft. It is a critical measurement in engine specifications because it directly impacts the vehicle’s ability to perform work, particularly in situations where pulling or moving loads is necessary. This rotational force is what enables the engine to accelerate the vehicle and is often felt most strongly at lower RPMs (revolutions per minute), making it essential for tasks like towing or hauling.

Horsepower, although related, measures the rate at which work is done and is derived from torque and engine speed. Therefore, while horsepower is important for understanding overall power output, torque specifically highlights the engine's ability to generate turning force. The speed at which an engine operates is indicated by RPM, which, while relevant to performance, does not define torque. The weight of engine components, on the other hand, pertains to engine design and construction rather than its functional output in terms of torque.

Thus, torque is fundamentally linked to how much rotational work an engine can perform, making it crucial to both engine performance and the driving experience.