1981 Honda Civic vs. 2003 MG TF
To start off, 2003 MG TF is newer by 22 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG TF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG TF (114 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG TF weights approximately 385 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.
Because 2003 MG TF 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 2003 MG TF. 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, 2003 MG TF (145 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 MG TF will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 2003 MG TF | |
| Make | Honda | MG |
| Model | Civic | TF |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
