1972 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Civic would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1972 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1494 kg more than 1972 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Honda Civic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Civic | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 2172 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2890 mm |
