1986 Subaru XT vs. 2001 Honda S-MX

To start off, 2001 Honda S-MX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Subaru XT (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Honda S-MX weights approximately 52 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT.

Because 2001 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Subaru XT. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1986 Subaru XT (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Honda S-MX. 2001 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Subaru XT 2001 Honda S-MX
Make Subaru Honda
Model XT S-MX
Year Released 1986 2001
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2672 cc 1973 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 147 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 67 mm 88 mm
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1278 kg 1330 kg
Vehicle Length 4460 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2510 mm