2008 Honda Element vs. 1986 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1986 Honda Civic. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 280 kg more than 1986 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Honda Civic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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 Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1986 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Element | Civic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2210 mm |
