1988 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1997 Honda S-MX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 129 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 Honda S-MX.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 520 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
