1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 3,828 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (263 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 | 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Honda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | S-MX | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3828 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
