1986 Honda Civic vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 1998 Acura EL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 Honda Civic. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura EL weights approximately 179 kg more than 1986 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, 1998 Acura EL (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Acura EL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Honda | Acura |
| Model | Civic | EL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1704 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2619 mm |
