1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2008 Honda S2000
To start off, 2008 Honda S2000 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda S2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda S2000 (237 HP) has 170 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda S2000 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda S2000 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Honda S2000 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 2008 Honda S2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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 S2000 (208 Nm @ 7500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda S2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2008 Honda S2000 | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Ballade | S2000 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 237 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2410 mm |
