1996 Honda S-MX vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 1997 Proton 300 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda S-MX 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 54 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 295 kg more than 1997 Proton 300. 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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Honda | Proton |
| Model | S-MX | 300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
