1988 Honda Civic vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 1988 Honda Civic is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Honda Civic (114 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Honda Civic weights approximately 304 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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, 1988 Honda Civic (144 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda Civic | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Civic | 4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
