1996 Honda Prelude vs. 1973 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1996 Honda Prelude is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Prelude (131 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Prelude weights approximately 45 kg more than 1973 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 1800 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 1973 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda Prelude, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Honda Prelude (179 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 1800. (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Prelude | 1973 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Prelude | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
