[cobrashoch]

Tom - The site you listed is indeed a rehash of the classic engineering thinking of torque vs horsepower. Unfortunatly such thinking is incomplete. What is not mentioned is the ability of a engine to "rev". Ever notice how slow a diesel winds up? For example a diesel engine may have identical horsepower and torque numbers with a gas engine. In a drag race which one would you take? It's about reciprocating weights, elimination of internal friction, head design and soooooooooo much more, such as in a formula engine. Way, way to simple such thinking is, as shown in the site above. I personally also disagree with the gearing premise for cars stated in the text. The word "compromise" comes to mind on such matters, even for race cars. The site you listed is however a good place to begin with, ibet a bit simplistic though.
cobrashock