1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Honda Ridgeline
To start off, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 3,470 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (250 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 201 kg more than 2009 Honda Ridgeline.
Because 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (335 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Ridgeline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 Honda Ridgeline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2009 Honda Ridgeline | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | S-MX | Ridgeline |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3110 mm |
