1997 Honda Prelude vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,155 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (195 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Prelude weights approximately 165 kg more than 2012 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, 1997 Honda Prelude (211 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Prelude | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Prelude | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2155 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1381 kg | 1216 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
