2009 Honda Civic vs. 1973 Honda Z
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1973 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 951 kg more than 1973 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Z. 2009 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1973 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1973 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1973 Honda Z | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Civic | Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 30 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 62.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 57.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2010 mm |
