1985 Mazda 626 vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1998 Honda S-MX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 626. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda S-MX weights approximately 296 kg more than 1985 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 626. (157 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 626. 1998 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 626 | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 626 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
