1959 Chevrolet Corvair vs. 2008 Honda Civic

To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Chevrolet Corvair would be higher. At 2,286 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Chevrolet Corvair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 120 kg more than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Chevrolet Corvair 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 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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:

1959 Chevrolet Corvair 2008 Honda Civic
Make Chevrolet Honda
Model Corvair Civic
Year Released 1959 2008
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 2286 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 81 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1280 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2660 mm