Torque Conversion Calculator
Written by Thierno Sadou Diallo, formula verified per our methodology • Last checked on 9/10/2026
To convert a torque, it is reduced to a common unit (the newton-meter), then converted into the new unit. For example, 100 N·m equals about 73.76 pound-feet.
Explanation
Torque (or moment of force) measures the rotational force applied to an axis, a central quantity in automotive mechanics and engineering. The newton-meter (N·m) is the SI unit, used on most European automotive spec sheets. The pound-foot (lb-ft or ft-lb), an imperial unit, remains the reference in the United States and the United Kingdom, particularly for tightening torques (bolts, automotive mechanics) and engine specs. The kilogram-force-meter (kgf·m), an older unit still occasionally used, expresses the torque produced by a one-kilogram-force force applied at a one-meter lever arm; it converts to newton-meters via standard gravity (9.80665 m/s², an exact value by international definition). Converting a torque means multiplying the value by the factor that reduces it to newton-meters, then dividing by the target unit's factor — exactly what this calculator does. A torque wrench graduated in lb-ft cannot be used directly to meet a tightening value given in N·m without prior conversion, a frequent point of vigilance in mechanics when using tools or manuals of different origins. To convert power rather than torque, see our power conversion calculator; to calculate an engine torque directly from power and rpm, our engine torque calculator.
Example: converting 100 N·m to pound-feet
Inputs
Value: 100. Starting unit: newton-meters. Target unit: pound-feet.
Calculation
100 N·m ÷ 1.3558179483 ≈ 73.7562 lb-ft.
Result
100 N·m equals about 73.76 pound-feet.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it important to convert a tightening torque correctly before applying it?
Because an unconverted unit gap can lead to a largely incorrect tightening: applying a value in lb-ft directly as if it were in N·m (or the reverse) underestimates or overestimates the actual torque by about 36%, a gap easily large enough to damage a part (over-tightening) or cause a dangerous loosening (under-tightening), particularly on mechanical or automotive safety components.
Is the kilogram-force-meter still an official unit?
No, it isn't an International System unit, but it's still sometimes used in certain older technical contexts or in a few countries that historically adopted it. The newton-meter is today the recommended unit for torque in the metric system.
Which torque unit is used on a French automotive spec sheet?
Generally the newton-meter (N·m), the standard SI unit in Europe. An American spec sheet will most often express the same engine torque in pound-feet (lb-ft), hence the value of this converter for comparing the specs of two vehicles from different markets.