2009 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
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 Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (140 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 344 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Civic | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1334 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2330 mm |
