2009 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Nissan Sunny
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Sunny 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 @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 601 kg more than 1981 Nissan Sunny. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Sunny. (123 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Sunny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1981 Nissan Sunny | |
| Make | Honda | Nissan |
| Model | Civic | Sunny |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
