2009 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 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 106 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 766 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. 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 (175 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Civic | 4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
