1981 Honda Civic vs. 2002 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 21 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Elantra (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 410 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, 2002 Hyundai Elantra (183 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm). This means 2002 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 2002 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2620 mm |
