1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 2008 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 1200. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 570 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Honda Civic (175 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200. 2008 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1970 Datsun 1200 has manual transmission. 1970 Datsun 1200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 2008 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 1200 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 50 L |
