1996 Honda S-MX vs. 1976 Seat 131
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Seat 131 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Seat 131 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 350 kg more than 1976 Seat 131.
Because 1976 Seat 131 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 1976 Seat 131. 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Seat 131. (178 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 1976 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Honda | Seat |
| Model | S-MX | 131 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2500 mm |
