1997 Honda Civic vs. 1988 Ford Falcon

To start off, 1997 Honda Civic is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Falcon (161 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Honda Civic. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Falcon weights approximately 475 kg more than 1997 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Ford Falcon 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 1988 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Ford Falcon (311 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda Civic. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda Civic. 1988 Ford Falcon has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1997 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Honda Civic 1988 Ford Falcon
Make Honda Ford
Model Civic Falcon
Year Released 1997 1988
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1395 cc 3949 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4250 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 311 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 955 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2800 mm