What is Quarter Mile Time?
The quarter mile (1/4 mile or 402 meters) is the gold standard for measuring vehicle acceleration performance. It measures the time it takes for a vehicle to travel exactly 1,320 feet (402.336 meters) from a standing start, along with the speed at the finish line (trap speed).
Why Quarter Mile Testing Matters
- Drag Racing Standard: The official distance for most drag racing competitions
- Complete Performance Picture: Shows sustained acceleration, not just initial burst
- Trap Speed: Indicates true power output
- Tuning Validation: Essential for measuring performance modifications
Understanding Quarter Mile Metrics
Elapsed Time (ET)
The total time from start to finish line. This is the primary metric for drag racing.
Trap Speed
Your speed as you cross the finish line. This indicates your car's power and aerodynamics.
💡 Did You Know? Trap speed is often more important than ET for evaluating true performance. Two cars with the same ET but different trap speeds have very different power characteristics.
How to Measure Quarter Mile Time
Step 1: Find a Safe Location
- Drag strip (ideal)
- Closed course
- Empty straight road (at least 1/2 mile long)
- Ensure legal and safe conditions
Step 2: Set Up 0to60Timer.com
- Visit 0to60Timer.com/tracker
- Grant sensor permissions
- Select "1/4 mile" in visible metrics
- Wait for GPS to stabilize
Step 3: Perform the Run
- Come to a complete stop
- Verify speed shows 0 mph
- Launch with full throttle
- Shift at optimal RPM
- Continue through the quarter mile
- The app automatically records your time and trap speed
Interpreting Your Results
Performance Categories
- Professional Drag Cars: Under 7 seconds @ 180+ mph
- Supercars: 9-11 seconds @ 130-150 mph
- Sports Cars: 11-13 seconds @ 110-130 mph
- Performance Cars: 13-15 seconds @ 95-110 mph
- Standard Cars: 15-18 seconds @ 80-95 mph
What Affects Quarter Mile Time?
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: Most important factor
- Traction: Tire grip and launch technique
- Gearing: Transmission ratios
- Aerodynamics: Affects trap speed
- Driver Skill: Launch and shifting technique
- Conditions: Temperature, altitude, surface
Tips for Better Quarter Mile Times
Launch Technique
- Practice consistent launches
- Find optimal RPM for launch
- Manage wheel spin
- Use launch control if available
Shifting Strategy
- Shift at redline or power peak
- Quick, smooth shifts
- Minimize time between gears
Vehicle Preparation
- Proper tire pressure (lower for drag racing)
- Remove unnecessary weight
- Full fuel tank for weight distribution
- Warm up engine and transmission
⚠️ Safety Warning: Quarter mile testing requires a long, straight, clear area. Never attempt on public roads. Use a drag strip or closed course.
Comparing Your Results
Use your quarter mile time to:
- Compare against manufacturer specifications
- Track improvements from modifications
- Compete with friends
- Validate tuning changes
- Monitor vehicle health over time
Other Performance Tests
0to60Timer.com also measures:
- 0-60 mph time
- 0-100 mph time
- 1/8 mile time
- 1 mile time