A system includes a power request module, a first desired engine speed (DRPM) determination module, a driver torque request module, and an actuation module. The power request module generates a power request for an engine of the vehicle based on an accelerator pedal position and a vehicle speed. The first DRPM determination module determines a first target DRPM based on the power request, a turbine speed of a torque converter, and a k-factor of the torque converter. The driver torque request module selectively generates a torque request for the engine based on the power request and the first target DRPM. The actuation module controls at least one engine actuator based on the torque request.