1985 Alfa Romeo 90 vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. (109 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 80 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 (246 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Honda |
| Model | 90 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
