, I'm the editor of AccurateAutoAdvice.com. In physics, torque is defined as the ability to do work, or apply force to move an object.. (NOTE: Not strict definitions, just how I would explain it) In practical automotive terms, torque is a measurement of an engine's ability to turn the wheels at any given RPM. A higher torque rating is a good indicator of acceleration ability, especially when that torque rating is available at a low RPM.