1981 Honda Civic vs. 1991 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda MX-3 (88 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1981 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, 1991 Mazda MX-3 (133 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm). This means 1991 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic. 1991 Mazda MX-3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Mazda MX-3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 1991 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 88 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2460 mm |
