Horsepower vs. Torque: What Truck Buyers Should Focus On

Shopping for a truck means comparing a lot of numbers, and two of the most important are horsepower and torque. These specs are listed on almost every truck page, yet many buyers are unsure what they truly mean for towing, hauling, or everyday driving. Understanding how they work makes choosing the right truck much easier.

What Is Horsepower?

Horsepower shows how quickly an engine can keep a truck moving once it is up to speed. You will feel horsepower most when:

• Merging onto the highway with confidence
• Passing slower vehicles while towing at speed
• Keeping a full truck or trailer steady on long road trips

If your driving includes long stretches of highway or frequent acceleration, horsepower should be a key part of your decision. You can explore a variety of trucks suited for everyday driving here: View All Vehicles.

What Is Torque?

Torque measures the twisting force an engine produces to get weight moving from a stop. You will notice torque most when:

• Pulling a trailer up a boat ramp
• Getting a loaded work truck going at a jobsite
• Climbing steep hills or rough terrain

Stronger torque makes a truck feel like it has muscle right where you need it. If you want a truck built for heavy tasks, you can request help finding one with the right torque using our Vehicle Finder Service.

How Horsepower and Torque Work Together

Torque gets the load moving. Horsepower keeps it moving. Trucks with the best balance can tow confidently while still feeling smooth and responsive during everyday driving.

Understanding RPM and Power Curves

Engines do not make maximum power all the time. Torque peaks at lower RPMs, which is perfect for getting a boat or trailer moving from a standstill. Horsepower peaks at higher RPMs, which helps when you need a quick burst of acceleration while already cruising. A truck built for towing usually emphasizes low-RPM torque to feel stronger under load.

Why Transmissions Matter

Transmissions control how power reaches the wheels. A lower first gear ratio multiplies torque, making it easier to pull away with heavy loads. Transmissions with more gears help keep the engine in its “sweet spot” for power and fuel efficiency.

Simple guidance:

• Tow or haul often: choose lower gear ratios for easier starts
• More highway commuting: choose gearing tuned for fuel economy at speed
• Mixed driving: look for multi-gear transmissions that adapt well to both

Different Engine Types

• Diesel engines: excellent low-RPM torque for heavy equipment towing
• Gas engines: smoother acceleration and strong horsepower for daily use
• Turbocharged engines: great mix of torque and horsepower efficiency
• Hybrid and electric motors: instant torque for quick, controlled pulling starts

Electric Truck Considerations

Electric trucks deliver maximum torque instantly, which feels powerful when backing a trailer or pulling up steep ramps. Regenerative braking helps recover energy when slowing down with a load. Range can drop faster under heavy towing, so selecting a larger battery pack helps maintain travel distance on long trips or hilly terrain.

Payload vs. Towing: Know the Difference

Payload is weight in the truck. Towing is weight behind it. These ratings are separate for a reason:

A truck excellent at towing might not carry lots of weight in the bed. Knowing both numbers prevents overloading.

GCWR: The Safety Number Most People Miss

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) measures how much total weight the truck and trailer can safely move together. Exceeding it can affect braking, handling, and drivetrain health even if the engine seems strong enough.

Which Matters More for You?

Choose based on what you do most:

• Heavy towing or jobsite equipment: torque first
• High-speed travel and acceleration: horsepower first
• Work during the week, play on weekends: a balanced setup

If you are upgrading to a truck that better suits your needs, a quick estimate on your current trade can help you plan your budget: Value Your Trade.

How Environment Affects Power Needs

• Mountains: stronger torque prevents slowing down on climbs
• Snow or soft ground: more torque helps maintain momentum
• Hot climates: engines work harder under load, so performance headroom helps

Flat city commuting often requires less torque and places more importance on comfort and fuel savings.

Common Truck-Buying Pitfalls to Avoid

• Picking a truck that barely meets today’s needs and needing to upgrade again soon
• Looking only at towing and forgetting payload rating constraints
• Ignoring terrain and climate when choosing power levels

Planning for the future often prevents the most expensive mistake: buying twice.

Quick Checklist Before You Buy

• How heavy are the loads you tow or haul?
• City, highway, or jobsite. Where do you drive most?
• Will conditions include hills, dirt, snow, or sand?
• Do you prefer stronger acceleration or stronger pulling strength?
• Do you need 4x4 for traction under load?

Explore and Compare Options

Once you understand what horsepower and torque mean for your everyday needs, you can explore a wide range of trucks and compare their strengths here: Brows Our Inventory.

Horsepower and torque both matter for capability, comfort, and confidence behind the wheel. When you focus on how you will actually use your truck, the right numbers become much easier to choose. Whether you need work strength, road-trip speed, or a blend of both, the best truck is the one that fits your real life.

There’s a chill in the air, and that can only mean one thing—Christmas is coming! For many children, this is the most exciting time of the year. Time off school, quality time with family, good food, and, of course, presents!

But for a lot of children, Christmas isn’t a guarantee. For parents who are facing financial difficulties, it can be a struggle to find the funds to make the holidays special for their children. In the community of Baileyton, Alabama, Parkside Outreach Program is stepping up to help these families create magical memories for their children.

2025 will be the 8^th year of Parkside’s Christmas Coalition. If you’re interested in helping make the holidays a festive time for all the children in our community and surrounding areas, you can ‘Adopt an Angel’ for only $25! Monetary donations can be made in person or through PayPal, with the link located here.

You could also contribute any unused, unopened toys by bringing them to Parkside Outreach Program Thrift Store, located at 12756 AL Highway 69 N Baileyton AL 35019 or the affiliated car lot A&D Motors at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway Arab AL 35016.

Affiliated donation boxes for toys can also be found at Friend’s Auction House at 4177 Hwy 231 Laceys Spring AL 35754 and the Baileyton Dollar General located at 13600 AL-69 N Baileyton AL 35019.

If you’d like to sign up a child in need, who lives within 10 miles of Baileyton AL, you can print and fill out the sign-up form and turn it in in person at either Parkside Thrift Store or A&D Motors. If you’d rather help by volunteering your time, or if you have any questions about the program, you can fill out the contact form here.

If you work a trade job, you already know that storage is key. Your tools are your livelihood, and, let’s face it, they’re not cheap! The last thing you want to do is to throw all of your equipment into a cramped and inappropriate space, leaving it susceptible to damage. That’s why you need to make the 2014 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo Van your next ride.

2014 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo Van

Leave Nothing Behind

With an impressive 270.4 cu/ft of storage space, this van is going to have more than enough room to hold everything you need to get the job done. Coupled with a 280-horsepower rating, you won’t need to worry about the added weight dragging you down—The GMC Savana has you covered.

Get There Safe

If you travel a lot for your job, you’ve probably taken to relying heavily on your phone’s GPS. The Savana’s Bluetooth Wireless Connectivity ensures you won’t miss a turn. The cruise control feature can help keep you steady on those long drives. Hands-Free phone and steering wheel controls mean you can keep your hands on the wheel and your mind on the road while you travel.

Get the Job Done

Have you ever found yourself on the job site and realized you forgot to charge something vital? The Savana’s included 12v power outlet means you won’t have to stop until the work is done. When your day is coming to a close and you want nothing more than to head straight home, remote engine start means you can have your van comfortable and ready to go as soon as you sit down. Remote keyless entry means you won’t even have to pause to dig out your keys—just jump in and drive!

Does the 2014 GMC Savana sound like just the tool you need for your job? Stop in for a test drive with A&D Motors at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016 today! If you have any more questions, just give us a call at 256-586-2276 and we’d be happy to help you out.

A truck can be a valuable tool. We use them to haul and tow; We use them for work and play. A truck can make a big difference in your day-to-day life. If you’re in the market for a truck that can do it all, then we’ve got the perfect fit for you—the 2010 Suzuki Equator.

Get Things Done in the 2010 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab

Carry More

When you think of a good truck, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the hauling capacity. When you choose to drive a Suzuki Equator, you’re choosing effortless mobility. Sporting a 5ft bed and a maximum 6100lb towing capacity, this truck is ready and waiting to take anything you need, anywhere you need.

Travel More

With a combined 16mpg rating and a 21.1-gallon fuel capacity, this truck is ready to go above and beyond for you. A built-in navigation system means you can take the road less traveled and not worry about finding your way back home. So, whether you’re traveling for work, gearing up for a weekend away, or simply running errands around town, the Suzuki has your back.

Share More

With included seating for 5 in the crew cab edition of the 2010 Equator, you’ll have plenty of room to bring your friends and family along for the ride. And with a CD player, satellite radio, and integrated Bluetooth connectivity, you won’t have to worry about filling any awkward silences along the way—even if you stray from the beaten path.

Do you feel like the 2010 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab is the perfect fit for all of your needs? If so, just give A&D Motors a call at 256-586-2276, or stop in and see us at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. We’re excited to help you out!

The Thanksgiving Tree: A Month of Giving Back

Autumn is finally here! The weather is cooling, the leaves are falling, and the holidays are just around the corner. Throughout history, people have used the chilly season as a time to gather together, to reflect on the year behind us, and to celebrate as we move towards the new year ahead. It’s a time of comfort, familiarity, and togetherness.

This year, we here at A&D Motors wanted to show our appreciation for the fantastic community around us. We have partnered with Warehouse Discount Grocery of Arab to provide gift vouchers to our wonderful neighbors, just in time for Thanksgiving!

If you want the chance to be included in this opportunity, or if you know someone else who could benefit, you can put in all entries at A&D Motors, located at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. A drawing will be held every Friday in November.

Our cars are a big part of our lives; For many of us driving is a daily task. Whether you’re going to work, shopping, or on a trip, you want to be sure that your vehicle can get you there and back. There are things you can do to help make sure your car stays safe and reliable. Keeping up with regular maintenance can extend the lifespan and performance of your vehicle. But what, exactly, is regular maintenance? We’re here to make it simple for you.

Maintaining Your Car

Check Your Oil

Probably the most well-known tip for any driver, you’ll want to keep an eye on your oil. A good rule of thumb is to have your oil changed every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. You should also check your oil levels at least once a month, or if you hear knocking sounds or notice a decrease in performance while driving—these are signs of low oil.

Replace Your Air Filter

When it comes to your air filter, you should typically plan on replacing it once a year or after driving 10,000 miles. The environments you drive in can impact the life of the filter, however. If you frequently drive down dusty roads or through heavy traffic idles, you should probably replace your filter twice a year or after 5,000 miles.

Test Your Tires

At least once per month, you’ll want to check the air pressure in your tires. If you’re not sure how much pressure is ideal, you can check your owner’s manual for your vehicle. In the winter, remember that cold air can cause a loss of air in your tires. You’ll also want to keep an eye on your tread and watch for any signs of thinning. Rotating your tires at least twice a year can help keep the regular wear-and-tear balanced and extend the lifespan of your wheels.

Watch Your Lights

You may only need to change your lights when they go out, but you don’t want to wait until you’re driving home in the dark to realize that one of them has died. A good practice would be to test all of your lights once a month. Make sure that you’re checking your blinkers and brake lights as well as your headlights and taillights.

You may also want to take your car once a year to have your spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant, and belts checked. If you do all of these things, your car should stay healthy and mobile for a good long while.

In the market for a vehicle to test these tips on? Give A&D Motors a call at 256-586-2276 or stop in 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. We’d love to help you find your next ride!

When you’re shopping for a new car, there are a lot of things you should consider—such as comfort, performance, and yes, even style. You don’t just need a vehicle that drives, you need one that gets you excited to drive. If that’s the case for you, then you need to check out the 2019 Chrysler 300.

Drive in Style in a 2019 Chrysler 300

A Unique Look

Do you like to be the star of the show? Do you like grabbing the attention of everyone you pass? The Chrysler 300 is the perfect car for you. Sporting a boxy retro look, this is a timeless vehicle that’s sure to turn heads everywhere you go.

Bring Your Friends

When you’re in a car that looks this good, you’ll definitely want to share it with everyone you know. Lucky for you, the Chrysler 300 makes sharing a breeze! With seating for 5 and 16.3 cu/ft of cargo space, you’ll be able to take all your friends and all their stuff for a spin around the block to show off your new ride.

Go Anywhere

Planning to go a little further than just your neighborhood? 23mpg fuel efficiency means you won’t have to hold yourself back. Included safety features, such as the backup camera auto-adjusting day/night rearview mirror, mean you can keep your full focus on the journey.

If you want to make a 2019 Chrysler 300 your next ride, give us a call at 256-586-2276 today, or just stop by at 501 N Brindlee Mtn Pkwy and come on in. We’re excited to see you!

Are you looking for a vehicle that can support your daily life and your travels? Do you want to zip around in a compact but spacious car that helps you save your money? Of course you do! That’s why a 2021 Kia Soul is the right choice for you.

Find Your Best Fit in a 2021 Kia Soul

Room to Breathe

With seating for 5 adults and a max cargo space of 62.1 cu/ft, you’ll have more than enough room to bring everything—and everyone—you need when you travel. The deep-set trunk and hatchback combination mean that even when every seat is up, you’ll have plenty of hauling space. So, whether you’re crossing state lines or chauffeuring your kids to their after-school’s, you won’t have to worry about running out of room.

Save on Fuel

Have you ever left work running on E and told yourself you’ll fix it in the morning, only to regret that decision the next day? One way to solve that problem is to choose a car that makes the most of its fuel—like the 2021 Kia Soul, for example. Boasting a fuel capacity of 14.3 gallons and a topline fuel efficiency of 33/mpg (highway), you’ll be able to travel more and fill up less.

Comfort Every Day

On top of having plenty of space, the Kia Soul comes with comfortable, durable cloth seats. Leather might have a monopoly on the luxury title, but if you’ve ever climbed into that driver’s seat wearing shorts on a sunny summer day, when the temps are hitting triple digits, then you already know—Cloth is the much smarter choice.

If you think that the 2021 Kia Soul could be the right fit for you, give A&D Motors a call today at 256-586-2276. Or, you can just stop by and see us at 501 N. Brindlee Mtn Pkwy Arab AL 35016!

Our vehicles can be more than just a machine taking us from A to B—they can become a part of our family. Whether you’re just getting started on your journey through life, or you need a little more space where you’re at, the 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan is a ride that just makes sense.

Room to Grow in a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan

A Seat for Everyone

Worried about bringing the whole family along? With seating for 7 included, no one has to be left behind—or squished into an awkward position. When you’re in your Grand Caravan, you can bring your kids, their friends, and even the dog anywhere you want to go.

No Need to Pack Light

Are you less concerned about transporting children and more concerned about bringing your luggage? The Grand Caravan still has you covered! With foldable rear seats and a maximum available cargo space of 140.3 cu/ft, you can be sure you’re bringing everything you need when you hit the road.

Clean and Comfortable

Sporting leather seats throughout, cleanup will be a breeze. No more will you have to accept your backseats becoming a bed of crumbs—one quick swipe with a damp rag, and that problem is solved.

Optimized Listening Experience

The 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan boasts more than just space. An included touchscreen monitor with voice recognition capabilities maximizes your ease and control over your radio. Do you want to roll a little more old-school? Satellite radio gives you a strong signal no matter how far you travel.

If you’re feeling like a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan could be the perfect ride for you, then come on down to A&D Motors at 501 N. Brindlee Mtn Pkwy, Arab AL 35016, or you can give us a call at 256-586-2276 and set up your test drive today.

A Simple Guide To Help Get You The Most Value

Trading in your vehicle can be one of the easiest ways to move into your next car. We make the process clear, professional, and stress-free so you can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time enjoying your next ride.

Step 1: Bring the Right Documentation

When you’re ready to trade in your car, a little preparation goes a long way. Having the right paperwork on hand helps us process your trade quickly and ensures everything is handled smoothly.

What to bring:

• Vehicle Title (or payoff information if you’re still making payments)

• Current Registration & Insurance

• Maintenance or Service Records (if available)

• Spare Keys, Remotes & Owner’s Manual

Having these items ready keeps the process fast and organized, so you can trade with confidence.

Step 2: A Quick Refresh

Before bringing your car in, take a few minutes to clear out your personal belongings. Check the glove box, door pockets, trunk, and under the seats—you’d be surprised what can hide away over the years.

In the excitement of driving away in your new car, it’s easy to forget something important like sunglasses, garage door openers, or even paperwork you’ve tucked away. Taking a quick moment now means you’ll have everything you need with you, and nothing gets left behind.

Step 3: Get a Professional Appraisal

Once you’re ready, bring your car to us for a professional appraisal. Our trained team will look at your vehicle’s condition, mileage, and market demand, then provide you with a fair, real-world offer.

Unlike selling privately, you won’t have to meet with strangers, negotiate back and forth, or worry about safe payment. Everything is handled in one secure, professional setting—usually the same day.

Step 4: Review Your Options

After your appraisal, you’ll have a clear offer in hand. From there, it’s your choice how to move forward:

• Trade In Toward Your Next Vehicle
  Apply your trade-in value directly toward your purchase and drive away with less to finance.

• Sell Your Car to Us
  Not ready to buy just yet? That’s fine too. You can simply sell us your vehicle and leave with an offer you can trust.

Either way, you’ll avoid the stress of listing your car online, handling phone calls, or arranging meetings.

Why Trade In With Us?

Trading your car should feel simple and stress-free—and that’s exactly what we aim to provide. We make the process convenient from start to finish, so you can focus on what matters most: getting into your next vehicle with confidence.

• Fast & Simple – Most trade-ins are completed the same day.

• Professional Appraisals – Fair offers based on the market, not guesswork.

• Safe & Secure – No need to meet strangers or handle risky transactions.

• Trusted Process – From paperwork to payoff, we take care of the details.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re thinking about selling or trading your current car, we’re here to make it easy. You can schedule your trade-in appraisal today, or stop by to explore our used car inventory No matter what you decide, you’ll find the process simple, transparent, and tailored to you.

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