2004 BMW 320 vs. 1980 Honda Accord

To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (142 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Honda Accord. (80 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1980 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Accord, 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, 2004 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Accord.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 320 1980 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model 320 Accord
Year Released 2004 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1601 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 142 HP 80 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.4:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 50 L