2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1980 Honda Ballade

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP) has 327 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 263 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 2006 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade. 1980 Honda Ballade has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet SSR has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet SSR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Honda Ballade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet SSR 1980 Honda Ballade
Make Chevrolet Honda
Model SSR Ballade
Year Released 2006 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5965 cc 1488 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 401 HP 74 HP
Torque 542 Nm 120 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91.4 mm 86.5 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1078 kg 815 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2330 mm