2009 Honda Civic vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,798 cc, 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 50 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2009 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Honda | Acura |
| Model | Civic | EL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1600 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2619 mm |
