1996 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Civic weights approximately 340 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corolla.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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. 1981 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Honda | Toyota |
| Model | Civic | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
