1971 Honda 1300 vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1997 Honda S-MX is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Honda 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda 1300 would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 Honda 1300. (81 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda S-MX weights approximately 435 kg more than 1971 Honda 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Honda 1300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda 1300. (105 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Honda 1300 | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | 1300 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1973 cc |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2200 mm | 2510 mm |
