LoBudget, maybe it's your impression that the gen2 lacks power than the gen1. you haven't specified if the gen2 you've driven is stickshift or slushbox. but since you mentioned that your ride is a/t then, i believe you had a torquey powerplant.

anyways, maybe the gen1 has lesser accessories that of gen2 that is why. but i am impressed with gen2 CRV than the gen1.

that is just my thought.