1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 205 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. 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 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | S-MX | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |