Are accords faster than civics?
In general, it depends on the trim and powertrain. Base Accords are typically competitive with Civics, but high‑performance Civics—Si and Type R—are usually faster. The deciding factors are engine power, weight, and transmission.
How acceleration differs across trims
Understanding which model accelerates faster requires looking at engines, weights, and transmissions. Honda offers two main turbo four‑cylinder options in these sedans, plus sportier variants that tighten the performance gap or widen it in favor of one model or the other.
Engine options and power
The Honda lineup mixes turbocharged four‑cylinder engines with different outputs. In recent years:
- Accord: 1.5L turbo around 190 hp; 2.0L turbo around 252 hp.
- Civic: 1.5L turbo roughly 180–190 hp; Civic Si uses a 1.5L turbo around 200 hp; Civic Type R uses a 2.0L turbo with about 315 hp.
Power figures and torque, combined with transmission choices, largely determine 0‑60 performance and in‑gear acceleration. Higher‑power variants tend to accelerate more quickly, even when the car weighs more.
Weight and chassis
Generally, Civics are lighter than Accords, especially in non‑hybrid configurations. A lighter curb weight can boost the power‑to‑weight ratio, helping a Civics in everyday accelerations, particularly in trims with similar power outputs. However, the Accord’s bigger engines offset some of that weight advantage in performance trims.
Drivetrain and transmissions
Transmission choice matters. The Accord’s standard and available automatics (including a 10‑speed and, in some trims, a CVT) influence how quickly power reaches the wheels. Civics offer a CVT on many trims, which can feel less urgent in some situations, while the Si and Type R are manual (or feature performance‑tuned gearboxes) and prioritize responsiveness. In practical terms, the Type R and Si can feel sharper, while base Accords and Civics deliver smooth, adequate acceleration for daily driving.
Typical performance by trim
Here’s a rough guide to how common configurations perform in terms of 0‑60 times. Times vary by model year, drivetrain, tires, and testing conditions.
- Base Accord (1.5L turbo): roughly 7.5–8.0 seconds 0‑60 with automatic transmission.
- Base Civic (1.5L turbo): roughly 7.5–8.5 seconds 0‑60 with CVT (varies by year).
- Accord 2.0L turbo: roughly 5.7–6.0 seconds 0‑60 with automatic transmission.
- Civic Si (2.0L turbo, manual): roughly 6.0–6.5 seconds 0‑60.
- Civic Type R (2.0L turbo, manual): around 5.0 seconds 0‑60.
These ranges reflect that base models are closely matched, while sportier Civics typically outrun base Accords, and the highest‑performance variants (Si/Type R) outperform most Accord configurations. The fastest Accord trims can approach the performance of lively Civics, but the Civic’s dedicated sport lines generally hold the edge in straight‑line speed.
Bottom line for buyers
For everyday driving, the difference in acceleration between a base Accord and base Civic is often modest, and factors like ride comfort, interior space, and features may be more consequential. If outright speed is the goal, a Civic Si or Type R outpaces most Accords, while the newest Accord with a 2.0L turbo can surprise with brisk acceleration in its own right. Your choice should weigh not just the 0‑60 times but also handling, practicality, and long‑term ownership costs.
Summary
There isn’t a universal winner between the Honda Accord and Honda Civic when it comes to acceleration. Base models are typically close, with Civics sometimes feeling quicker due to lighter weight. For true speed, the Civic Si and Type R outperform many Accords, while the Accord’s 2.0L turbo variants offer strong mid‑pack performance. In short, choose based on the trim and powertrain you value most, not a single headline metric.
