1989 Honda Accord vs. 1981 Honda Accord
To start off, 1989 Honda Accord is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,955 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Honda Accord (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Honda Accord weights approximately 238 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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, 1989 Honda Accord (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 1981 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Accord | Accord |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1198 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2460 mm |
