How do I convert miles to kilometres?

Multiply miles by 1.60934 to get kilometres. For a quick mental estimate, multiply by 8 then divide by 5 — this gives a close approximation (e.g. 50 miles x 8 / 5 = 80 km, actual is 80.5 km).

Why does the UK use miles instead of kilometres?

The UK never fully completed its metrication of road distances. While most other measurements went metric in the 1970s, road signs and distances remained in miles. This is unlikely to change due to the enormous cost of replacing every road sign in the country.

Does my car odometer show miles or kilometres?

UK-specification cars show miles on the main odometer. Most modern cars can switch the trip display between miles and kilometres in the settings menu. Imported European or Japanese cars may default to kilometres.

Why does the UK still use miles instead of kilometres?

UK road signs and speed limits are in miles and mph by law. While most other measurements have gone metric, road distances remain in miles. This dates back to the 1970s when the planned conversion was abandoned. Ireland also used miles until 2005.

What is the conversion factor between miles and kilometres?

One mile equals exactly 1.60934 kilometres, and one kilometre equals 0.62137 miles. A quick approximation is that 5 miles is roughly 8 km, or multiply miles by 1.6 for a close estimate.

CarCalcs

Miles to Kilometres Converter

Convert distances between miles and kilometres accurately.

Conversion Direction

Distance (miles)

How We Calculate This

This converter uses the internationally defined conversion factor between miles and kilometres.

The Formula

Miles to km: Distance in km = Distance in miles x 1.60934
Km to miles: Distance in miles = Distance in km / 1.60934

Common Distances

1 mile = 1.609 km
5 miles = 8.047 km
100 miles = 160.9 km
1 km = 0.621 miles
100 km = 62.1 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.