2004 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Honda Accord

To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,602 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 385 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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, 2004 Ford Focus (170 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Ford Focus 1981 Honda Accord
Make Ford Honda
Model Focus Accord
Year Released 2004 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1387 cc 1602 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 126 Nm
Engine Bore Size 76 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.5 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.4:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1275 kg 890 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 72 L 50 L