1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (449 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 205 kg more than 1996 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Chrysler Viper. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (664 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Chrysler | Honda |
| Model | Viper | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 449 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
