1996 Honda Civic vs. 2012 Honda Accord

To start off, 2012 Honda Accord is newer by 16 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 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Accord (148 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic.

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, 2012 Honda Accord (350 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Accord 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. 2012 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Honda Civic 2012 Honda Accord
Make Honda Honda
Model Civic Accord
Year Released 1996 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1834 cc 2199 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 148 HP
Torque 174 Nm 350 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors