1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1973 Honda Civic

To start off, 1973 Honda Civic is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1973 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 792 kg more than 1973 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 AMC Javelin 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 1972 AMC Javelin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 AMC Javelin 1973 Honda Civic
Make AMC Honda
Model Javelin Civic
Year Released 1972 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5898 cc 1168 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 387 Nm 79 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1467 kg 675 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 3570 mm
Vehicle Width 1920 mm 1510 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2210 mm