1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (148 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Honda Civic (350 Nm) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (149 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | Cosmo | Civic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
