2004 Honda Civic vs. 1962 Honda S500
To start off, 2004 Honda Civic is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Honda S500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Honda S500 would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Civic (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1962 Honda S500. (38 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1962 Honda S500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Civic weights approximately 441 kg more than 1962 Honda S500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Honda S500 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 1962 Honda S500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Honda Civic (130 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Honda S500. (39 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2004 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Honda S500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Civic | 1962 Honda S500 | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Civic | S500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1121 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
