Why Honda Accord 0-60 Specifications Matter To Buyers

By Deanne Shepard


Stop-and-go traffic is the norm for most urban drivers. Chronically congested streets afford few chances to actually test full acceleration speed in real time, but situations still arise where a nimble start can prevent a rear-end collision, or when freeway traffic makes merging quickly imperative. While most family vehicle operators seldom push their cars to the maximum, Honda Accord 0-60 results illustrate the possibilities.

This type of testing originated in the late 1940s, when the best recorded time for a Detroit-made car was over sixteen seconds. By current standards that figure is unimpressive, but the next decade ushered in improvements. During the technological growth spurt of the sixties, times for the fastest cars were cut in half, with the fleetest clocking in at seven seconds.

The bleak energy crunch of the seventies contributed to a marked decrease in acceleration improvements. Unleaded fuel was introduced for new vehicles, and the addition of the first emission control devices helped sap the strength of an entire generation of new cars. Even the loudest and fastest muscle cars were slowed. Design improvements eventually solved most issues, and were reflected in better measurements.

Today, it is common for ordinary cars to reach the sixty miles per hour goal in less than nine seconds. The much-maligned mini-van leaves older sports models in the dust, in spite of a stodgy reputation. Most newly produced automobiles easily beat the old records, and get twice as many miles from a gallon of gas while they do it. The days of impulse-driving cross country have waned, but new cars today could easily meet the challenge.

Auto enthusiasts often look at the acceleration specifications before anything else, but other potential buyers may find them confusing. Some new cars are equipped with high-tech launch devices, sport sticky tires that give quick-starts an advantage, and feature all-wheel drive mechanisms. These automobiles can do the required sprint in under four seconds, extremely fast by any standard.

Because most records are ultimately broken, the best times will inch even lower. Those who primarily drive out of necessity should be aware that a good rating indicates a high level of performance. It can be especially helpful when a rapid response is needed to avoid a mishap. Having confidence that a particular vehicle can deftly maneuver when required is important when safety is a primary concern.

Accords are a fine example of that capability. Most new models delivered by this Japanese corporation test within a 5.5 to 7.6 second spectrum. Earlier models still being used may add up to 8 seconds, but most drivers find new-model response to be completely satisfactory. The solid, reliable engine design coupled with very high production values compensates for any differences.

The quoted figures can vary in real driving situations. Poorly maintained roads degrade performance, and standard tires can slightly slow things down. The weight of passengers or cargo can also contribute to diminished standing acceleration. Even weather conditions play a part. The real test is personal, and includes real-time driving under a wide variety of conditions, giving potential buyers a true feel of performance.




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