2009 Honda Civic vs. 1976 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 19 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1976 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2616 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
