2004 Acura MDX vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2004 Acura MDX is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura MDX (238 HP) has 171 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura MDX weights approximately 1185 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Acura MDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Honda Ballade. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Acura MDX will offer significantly more control. 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 MDX (332 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade. 2004 Acura MDX has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Acura MDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Acura MDX | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Acura | Honda |
| Model | MDX | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1334 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2330 mm |
