1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Lexus GS
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (246 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 290 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 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Lexus GS. 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, 2009 Lexus GS (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2009 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2009 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Honda | Lexus |
| Model | S-MX | GS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2860 mm |
