1981 Honda Civic vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1981 Honda Civic is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Rekord weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 Honda Civic.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 1971 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Civic, 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, 1971 Opel Rekord (120 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Honda | Opel |
| Model | Civic | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2680 mm |
