1959 Hudson Metropolitan vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Hudson Metropolitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Hudson Metropolitan would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1959 Hudson Metropolitan. (47 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1959 Hudson Metropolitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 363 kg more than 1959 Hudson Metropolitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Hudson Metropolitan 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 Hudson Metropolitan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Honda Civic (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Hudson Metropolitan. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Hudson Metropolitan.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Hudson Metropolitan 2012 Honda Civic
Make Hudson Honda
Model Metropolitan Civic
Year Released 1959 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1489 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 47 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 4100 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 100 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 2100 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 820 kg 1183 kg