1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2008 Lexus LS
To start off, 2008 Lexus LS is newer by 12 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (389 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus LS weights approximately 1155 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Lexus LS (522 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2008 Lexus LS 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. 2008 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2008 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Honda | Lexus |
| Model | S-MX | LS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3100 mm |
