2008 Honda Civic vs. 1996 Mazda MPV

To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 575 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 1996 Mazda MPV. 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, 1996 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (152 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Honda Civic 1996 Mazda MPV
Make Honda Mazda
Model Civic MPV
Year Released 2008 1996
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1493 cc 2954 cc
Horse Power 140 HP 146 HP
Engine RPM 4300 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 152 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1145 kg 1720 kg
Vehicle Length 4940 mm 4680 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2850 mm