1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Alpina B3
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 13 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 122 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.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2009 Alpina B3 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. 2009 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Honda S-MX | 2009 Alpina B3 | |
Make | Honda | Alpina |
Model | S-MX | B3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3346 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 301 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 362 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 93.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1452 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2730 mm |