1948 Buick 40 vs. 1981 Honda Civic
To start off, 1981 Honda Civic is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Buick 40 (114 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1981 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Buick 40 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1948 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Civic, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Buick 40 | 1981 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Buick | Honda |
| Model | 40 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1333 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 785 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2330 mm |
