1996 Honda S-MX vs. 1989 Mazda 626
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 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 210 kg more than 1989 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 1989 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | S-MX | 626 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
