1990 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Honda S-MX

To start off, 1999 Honda S-MX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,972 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda S-MX weights approximately 250 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 1999 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1999 Honda S-MX
Make BMW Honda
Model 316 S-MX
Year Released 1990 1999
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1972 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1330 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2510 mm