1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2008 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2008 TVR Chimaera 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 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 TVR Chimaera (281 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 TVR Chimaera 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 115 kg more than 2008 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 TVR Chimaera. 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 TVR Chimaera (390 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Honda | TVR |
| Model | S-MX | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2290 mm |
