2008 Honda Civic vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 145 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 366 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Honda Civic (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
