Glossary / General

straight line speed

9 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

Straight line speed is how fast a car can go in a straight line, like when you press the gas pedal to speed up quickly. It's just one part of what makes a car fun to drive, as it doesn't show how well the car can turn or handle curves.

Technical Definition

Straight line speed refers to a vehicle's ability to accelerate quickly in a straight path, typically measured by metrics like 0-60 mph times. While important, it does not encompass a car's overall performance, which also includes handling and cornering capabilities.

Hear It Discussed

"...not just performance and name only where it's straight line speed, but performance that means cornering, handling something really quite delightful to drive and is engaging to enthusiasts."
974: The Great EV Stakeout, The Miami Special Edition, The French Connection Everyday Driver Car Debate 14:55

"He goes, listen, I'm really more interested in straight line speed with this car because I went and did the Corvette school at Spring Mountain, you know, but I really like to go fast in a straight..."
BMW’s Manual Comeback, GT4 Gearing Problems & R8 vs Gallardo Debate Full Throttle Talk 13:01

"So in terms of your car, you want to maximize your straight line speed, but you also want to provide the co-drivers, especially stability across the top."
The Motorsport Brief | Bathurst preview with Scott Sinclair Rusty's Garage 07:21