1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 59 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Honda S-MX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-MX | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1271 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
