1978 Honda Civic vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 812 kg more than 1978 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Honda Civic | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Civic | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2800 mm |
