1981 Honda Civic vs. 2012 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 31 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 781 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 2012 Ford Mustang 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 2012 Ford Mustang. 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic.

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