1963 Honda S500 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Honda S500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Honda S500 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1963 Honda S500. (43 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1963 Honda S500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 541 kg more than 1963 Honda S500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Honda S500 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 1963 Honda S500. 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 (193 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Honda S500. (45 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Honda S500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Honda S500 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | S500 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 531 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4276 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1445 mm |
