2009 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Honda Accord
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,668 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 161 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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 (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1981 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Civic | Accord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1121 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2460 mm |
