1986 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 160 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 1986 BMW M3. 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 1996 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
