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cubic centimeter to cubic inch – How to convert cm³ to in³
When working between metric and imperial systems, the cubic centimeter to cubic inch conversion often becomes necessary. From 3D printing to packaging and automotive design, both units are still widely used today. Let’s look at their definitions, the conversion formula, and how this plays out in real life.
What is a cubic centimeter (cm³)?
A cubic centimeter is the volume of a cube with each side measuring 1 centimeter. It equals 1⁄1000 liter or exactly 1 milliliter. In medicine, perfumes, and laboratory measurements, cm³ is a standard choice for accuracy.
What is a cubic inch (in³)?
A cubic inch is the volume of a cube with each side equal to 1 inch. It equals about 16.387 cm³. This unit is still common in the United States, particularly in engineering, automotive engines, and product design. For example, certain car engines in the US are rated in cubic inches rather than cubic centimeters.
Conversion formula – cubic centimeter to cubic inch
The two units are directly related by the fixed ratio:
1 in³ = 16.387 cm³1 cubic inch = cubic centimeter ÷ 16.3871 cubic centimeter = cubic inch × 16.387
Examples:
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32.774 cm³ = 2 in³ -
5 in³ = 81.935 cm³
For more accurate or complex calculations, you can try the Volume Converter or explore other Conversion Tools available on Jetcalculator.
Do you know?
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Cubic centimeters in medicine: A typical syringe is labeled in milliliters, but each mL is also exactly 1 cm³. That makes the unit vital in healthcare.
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Cubic inches in American engines: Classic American muscle cars often advertised engine sizes in cubic inches, such as a 350 in³ V8, which equals about 5735 cm³.
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Cultural crossover: Many US product manuals still include cubic inches, while European versions use cubic centimeters. This dual listing helps global companies serve both markets.
Engines and design – where cm³ and in³ meet
One of the most famous fields where cm³ and in³ overlap is the automotive world. American manufacturers historically described engine displacement in cubic inches, while Europe and Asia adopted cubic centimeters. For example, Chevrolet’s iconic “350 in³ small-block” engine, beloved by car enthusiasts, equals roughly 5735 cm³.
This isn’t just trivia. Engineers, mechanics, and enthusiasts often need to convert between cm³ and in³ when comparing vehicles across markets. A buyer in Europe reading about an American car might only understand the performance if the engine is expressed in cm³, while a US mechanic prefers the familiar in³ figure.
Beyond cars, this conversion also plays a role in 3D printing and product design. CAD software in the US may output volumes in in³, but many global manufacturers require cm³ for consistency. Accurate conversion keeps designs compatible across systems.
From cars to calculations
The formula 1 in³ = 16.387 cm³ connects two very different measurement traditions. Whether you’re a designer working with CAD software, a doctor preparing medicine, or a car enthusiast comparing engines, switching between cm³ and in³ is part of global communication.
By learning this conversion, you not only master a piece of math but also gain a bridge between metric precision and imperial tradition.
