Working with ponies in the 18th century, James Watt designed a brand new steam engine designed to replace horses. He needed a convenient way to sell this new engine: Horsepower proved to be the appropriate measurement designed to attract the attention he needed.
Imagine 300 horses pulling a single car and how difficult that would be. Thankfully, we have engines instead of horses. Watt worked with ponies and determined that each pony could do 22,000 pounds of work per foot per minute. He increased this number to 33,000 pounds, by a measure of approximately 50%. People found his new measurement of horsepower to be very understandable and relatable to their needs.
Please see us at Bob Allen Chrysler Jeep Dodge & Ram here in Danville, KY if you're looking for a new vehicle. We'll be more than happy to help you find one with more horsepower. We can also work within your specifications to help you find the car of your dreams.