1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2009 Honda Ridgeline
To start off, 2009 Honda Ridgeline is newer by 28 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 3,470 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (250 HP) has 183 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Ridgeline weights approximately 344 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 2009 Honda Ridgeline is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Honda Ballade. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (335 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Ridgeline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade. 2009 Honda Ridgeline has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Ridgeline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2009 Honda Ridgeline | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Ballade | Ridgeline |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 3470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 250 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 5260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3110 mm |
