1996 Honda S-MX vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 260 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-MX | 300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
