1996 Honda Civic vs. 2004 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Acura RL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura RL (225 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (112 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura RL weights approximately 673 kg more than 1996 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, 2004 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (138 Nm). This means 2004 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic. 2004 Acura RL 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. 2004 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 2004 Acura RL | |
| Make | Honda | Acura |
| Model | Civic | RL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
