2009 BMW 523 vs. 1984 Honda Civic

To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1984 Honda Civic. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1984 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1984 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Honda Civic. (130 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 523 1984 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model 523 Civic
Year Released 2009 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1488 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 100 HP
Torque 230 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1155 kg
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2460 mm