Motors How much power does Air Con use?

I must say that the Zetec engine dosen't provide most its power until the top of its rev range, driving a zetec is much like driving a diesel engine, that only difference being RPM range and Torque levels.

I have driven my mums focus which is an 1800cc Zetec unit, and nearly had i few crunches at junctions when pulling away, as my volvo is much lighter and puts out the same power, so the power to weight ratio is higher for my volvo. handling in the focus is much better and brakes are sharper, but brakes are for girls, dont need them!

my volvo dosen't have AC, but opening the window and sticking your hand out or even putting your face near the opening will chill you down, especially at high speed.

 

I have a 1.6L Mazda Protege and with the AC on i hardly notice any difference. The only thing i notice is that when it is switching gears (automatic) it takes longer and revs higher.

 

Where i was working in france, it was deemed normal for 15%-20% power loss due to the compressor resistance.

 

I dont have those issues in my car to be honest. I turn the ac on and the engine does not sound different, I step on it hard the the rear tires light up in smoke (bye bye pzero's). Hell even my fuel consumption difference is non existent.....Hell I drive a ford too.....

I guess 330flywheel hp isn't bad at all for ~24mpg (imperial) city and ~34mpg (imperial) highway 75mph+

You guys need to a) turn off ac or b) get something with more torque.