1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra 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 32 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1996 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Honda | Opel |
| Model | S-MX | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2500 mm |
