1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2013 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2013 Nissan Versa is newer by 32 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Versa (108 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Versa weights approximately 339 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.
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, 2013 Nissan Versa (145 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2013 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Honda | Nissan |
| Model | Ballade | Versa |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1124 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4455 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1514 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2600 mm |
